Read the New Book!
Give and Take:
Motherhood and Creative Practice
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Edited by: Tara Carpenter Estrada,
Katie Palfreyman, and Hilary Wolfley
Give and Take offers personal narratives from artist mothers at all stages in their careers who work in multidisciplinary mediums about the “ give and take” of motherhood in the art world. The collection of essays addresses relatable topics and essential vocabulary as tools to describe phenomena all artist mothers have experienced. Readers will easily be able to see themselves in the authors' words.
Amanda Banks, a multidisciplinary artist local to Huntsville, AL, draws profound inspiration from the intricate systems that shape human experience. Her art serves as a lens, amplifying the subtle yet powerful connections binding individuals together. Through a fusion of artistic, scientific, and mathematical perspectives, she recontextualizes common ideas and materials, challenging viewers to explore the intricacies of shared human experience.
With a multidisciplinary BS from The University of Alabama in Huntsville, Amanda's practice seamlessly integrates a variety of disciplines to present fresh interpretations of familiar concepts. By blending artistic expression with scientific and mathematical inquiry she creates works that transcend traditional boundaries, encouraging contemplation, reflection, and dialogue. Her current pursuit of a PhD in Economics, complemented by an upcoming MBA in 2026, enriches her artistic endeavors with analytical rigor and a nuanced understanding of societal dynamics.
Amanda is also a certified crochet instructor with the Craft Yarn Council and an active board member of the Women’s Caucus for Art, contributing her expertise to support women in the arts at both national and local levels. Through volunteer services, she fosters an inclusive environment for creative expression and advocates for equity and empowerment in the artistic community.
In her downtime, Amanda finds inspiration in the rural surroundings she shares with her partner of 15 years, their two teenage children, and an eclectic mix of pets. Her tranquil home provides a grounding force that fuels her artistic explorations, infusing her work with authenticity and depth.