Maya Althaus

Sacred Heart College, VCE Art Making and Exhibiting

Is humanity interwoven? 2024
linocut on calico

Artist statement:

My use of linocut on calico fabric becomes more than just a medium—it acts as a metaphor for the fragile yet resilient nature of human connection across time. The use of calico, a fabric historically associated with trade and colonisation, subtly nods to the global exchange of culture, ideas, and experiences that have shaped our collective identity.

The repetition of motifs within the print speaks to the cyclical nature of human experience, while the imperfections inherent in the hand-carved lino remind us of the individual marks each generation leaves on the evolving story of humanity.

My work challenges us to reflect on how our actions today will be woven into the fabric of tomorrow. By exploring the connections between past and present, my piece suggests that humanity’s trajectory is not linear but rather a complex, interconnected web. Each person, culture and event become a thread, contributing to a larger, intricate design that continues to evolve.
This profound contemplation of heritage, continuity, and transformation invites viewers to consider their role in the ever-unfolding narrative of human history.