CB: What are your preferred plants or foraged items to work with? Are there any materials that you're eager to experiment with in the future?

Kayla: My favorite plants to forage aren't solely defined by the plant itself, but rather by the circumstances surrounding their foraging. Many trees and bushes require pruning for optimal health. Lately, I've been focusing on crabapple blossoms, which I collect by identifying somewhat neglected trees. These trees often have shoots, known as water sprouts, growing up from their main branches. These sprouts not only sap energy from the tree but also obstruct airflow and sunlight to the rest of the tree. Pruning them not only benefits the tree but also provides me with dye material.

It's important to note that not all dyes yield long-lasting colors. In the case of crabapple, it produces a stunning green hue that is, however, temporary and will eventually fade. For me, this ephemeral quality is integral to the process. The color is vibrant and alive, mirroring the transient nature of life itself. Embracing impermanence adds depth to my craft.

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CB: How much of your time do you spend outdoors collecting materials for dyeing? Could you share an example of what a typical foraging session looks like?

Kayla: I absolutely adore being outdoors! Rain or shine, I make it a point to go for a walk every day. Immersing myself in nature, and getting to know the plants, animals, weather, and people of a place – that's all part of my creative process. I pay keen attention to the plant life, observing what's growing and where it's thriving. Detroit holds a special allure for me because of its unique landscape; many areas that were once occupied by homes, schools, or businesses are now open fields. During my walks, I often encounter rabbits, pheasants, foxes, and on one memorable occasion, even a coyote! This land teems with wildlife and plant life, making observation the crucial first step in my foraging endeavors. 

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CB: Could you provide a starting tip for beginners who want to naturally dye their own fabrics at home?

Kayla: I always suggest starting with a good book. The internet is brimming with information, which can often feel overwhelming. The choice of book depends on your approach to natural dyeing. "The Modern Natural Dyer" by Kristine Vejar is fantastic for those interested in project-based natural dyeing. For a deeper understanding of the science behind dyeing with plants, "The Art and Science of Natural Dyes" by Catherine Ellis and Joy Boutrup is an excellent choice.

Another tip is to let go of any expectations. Natural dyeing is not just about producing beautiful colors; it's also a journey of connection to history, our ancestors, and craft traditions. Enjoy the process without becoming too fixated on the results.

CB: How does sustainability guide the work that you do?

Kayla: Sustainability lies at the core of my studio practice. From the outset of my artistic journey, I harbored a strong conviction to avoid creating anything that could cause harm to the environment. This led me to prioritize locally sourced materials and foster relationships with the farmers who raise the sheep and alpaca providing my materials. Not only does this contribute to the environmental sustainability of my work, but it also supports my local economy. I believe in building my practice gradually and with purpose, ensuring its strength and longevity.

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CB: The textile industry produces a lot of waste and uses harsh chemicals. How can we make sure we aren’t purchasing clothing that uses dyes that could be potentially harmful to us?

Kayla: This is very complicated. It’s true the textile industry produces a lot of waste and uses harsh chemicals. It's true that the negative impacts of fast fashion largely affect the individuals producing the garments and the environments where they are made. In addressing this issue, a crucial step is to collectively reduce our consumption, particularly of clothing. The production of new garments, even when using natural materials, is often unsustainable. For instance, cotton cultivation consumes vast amounts of water and frequently involves the use of pesticides that contaminate water sources and endanger workers' health.

‍Instead of constantly buying new items, can we explore alternatives such as purchasing second-hand clothing? Additionally, there's the option of dyeing garments ourselves or even mending and repurposing items we already own. These actions not only contribute to reducing waste but also empower us to make more conscious and sustainable choices in our consumption habits.

CB: It seems like your craft opens up endless possibilities. What aspects of your creative practice are you most excited about for the future?

Kayla: I'm thrilled about the opportunity to engage with people through my work and facilitate a deeper connection to the natural world. Personally, delving into the realm of plants and honing my ability to observe and appreciate the smallest details has profoundly altered my perspective on life. I believe there's a growing eagerness among people to engage in hands-on activities, to delve into craft, and to gain a deeper understanding of the living world. For me, this work is deeply humanizing; it serves as a reminder of our shared humanity and common ground.

I look forward to maintaining my sense of curiosity, remaining attentive, and continuing to create art that speaks to our collective human experience for as long as possible