This Javanese-French creative maverick weaves together science, spirituality, ecology, and ancestral wisdom, crafting experiences that reexamine our symbiotic bond with the natural world. As the world grapples with environmental degradation, social identity, and the human condition, Ines Katamso’s artistic inquiries offer a poignant reflection of our times.
This visionary artist, rooted in both Indonesian and French cultures, has developed a distinctive practice that converges art, science, spirituality, and ancestral wisdom.
The Symbiocene
Photo Jair Lanes
Katamso’s work is underpinned by the concept of the Symbiocene, a term coined by Australian philosopher Glenn Albrecht to describe a future era of symbiotic relationships between humans and the natural world.
Photo Jair Lanes
Photo Jair Lanes
Through her art, she seeks to reweave the fragmented threads of our connection with the environment, challenging anthropocentric narratives that have contributed to the current ecological crisis.
With this work, titled Post-Trata, Ines further took her inquiries based on the sixth mass extinction and questions on the future of humans and nature state:
“If humanity were to disappear, what legacy would our society leave behind?”
Inspired by how scientists study soil layers to uncover history, revealing fossils, geological events, biological activities, and artifacts, with recycled plastic she created ‘future fossils’ from construction debris and recycled plastic found near her studio, experimenting with scagliola, an ancient technique for replicating stone to achieve new textures on the finished results.
Ancestral Techniques Meet Modern Materials
Katamso’s creative process is characterized by the use of organic materials like soil, minerals, and plants, combined with meticulous research in geology and paleontology.
Her innovative approach has led to the development of handmade pastels and pigments, which she employs to craft intricate, thought-provoking pieces. Recent works have incorporated recycled plastic, prompting viewers to confront the devastating impact of human activity on the planet.
Katamso’s creative process is marked by:
Organic Materials
Soil, minerals, and plants, carefully selected to honor the natural world and its rhythms.
Meticulous Research
Delving into geology and paleontology to uncover the secrets of the Earth’s history and the ancient stories etched within.
Handmade Pastels and Pigments
Innovative, labor-intensive techniques yielding unique, earthy hues that imbue her art with a sense of authenticity.
Recycled Plastic
A more recent addition, incorporated to confront the devastating impact of human activity on the planet, sparking essential conversations about sustainability and our collective legacy.
From Fossils to Future Legacy
In her notable exhibition, “Inquirious” (2023), Katamso presented a collection of fossils, symbolizing ancient science, knowledge, and spirituality.
This theme was further explored in “Post-Trata” (2024), where she created ‘future fossils’ from recycled plastic, inviting observers to ponder the legacy humanity will leave behind if it were to disappear.
“I aim to create a space for contemplation, inviting viewers to reflect on the delicate interplay between science, spirituality, and personal identity to reconsider their connection to the natural world.”
Inspiring a New Era of Environmental Stewardship
Through her art, Ines Katamso inspires a deeper understanding of the intricate relationships between nature, culture, and human identity.
As the world navigates the complexities of the sixth mass extinction, her work serves as a powerful reminder of the urgent need for symbiotic coexistence and environmental stewardship.
Contact the Artist
Instagram: @ines.katamso
Email: hello@ineskatamso.art
Website: www.ineskatamso.art
English