Amanda Tattam

About the practice

How we use and reimagine everyday materials is at the heart of Circular Art and Craft. The world is overflowing with unwanted or preloved materials that, with the right approach, can be reshaped into art and craft. From textiles to ceramics, glass, found objects, paper, cardboard and plastics, there is a limitless supply of manufactured and natural materials available to us. This enterprise was founded in Melbourne, Australia in 2026 by Amanda Tattam who has been making mosaics for over 20 years. She believes overconsumption breeds ill health for people and the planet. Buying things we don’t need has become a hobby and it doesn’t bring joy. This can include art and craft supplies. What happens when we stop buying things and start making stuff instead? If we become a producer, rather than a consumer? We are more likely to have a stronger sense of wellbeing and if we do this in a small group or community setting, it’s even better. This is especially important as we face an epidemic of loneliness across the western world. Everyone can tap into their creativity if they have the materials and encouragement in the right environment. With a background in health care, activism and journalism, Amanda is keen to share her love for making with others who care for the environment and want to imbed their art making for personal health and happiness. Another goal for Circular Art and Craft is to refocus our attention to the power of place and memory. Stories and memories are held in reused materials locations. By intentionally repurposing items, their history lives on. The materials come together in unexpected ways and begin anew on reimagined surfaces. There is another reason why humans need to return to using their hands and hearts to create unique things. Artificial intelligence. Creating your own original works is more important than ever as we need an antidote to the digital dominance we face in every part of our lives. As Daisy Fancourt says in her fabulous book, 'Art Cure', ‘Art...alongside diet, sleep, exercise and nature, is the forgotten fifth pillar of health. Plantary health counts too. Thinking with circularity is an obligation we need to take seriously if we are to support a healthy environment. We have a long way to go before people understand all the elements of the circular economy. Not just 'putting stuff in the right bin', but other actions too refuse, reduce, repurpose, reuse, repair and then recycle. The act of making with sustainable intention is something we can all be a part of no matter what age or stage of life.