Meet Sydney Bickel | Interdisciplinary Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Sydney Bickel and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Sydney, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
I think risk-taking is a fundamental part of my practice. Much of my creative process is born from experimentation. I identify as an interdisciplinary artist, since I am consistently fusing new mediums whenever I have a new idea. A goal of mine within my practice is to possess a diverse range of artistic skills, which enables me to blend them uniquely with each project I undertake. I’m particularly drawn to art that engages risk; it’s the element of surprise that captivates me. I like how taking risks transforms viewers into active participants in the artistic dialogue, provoking thoughts on subjects they might otherwise overlook. Risk, I find, is incredibly motivating. Witnessing art that challenges me to think differently only expands my creativity, inspiring me to explore new approaches I wouldn’t have considered before.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My work traditionally blends fabric, embroidery, film photography, videography, and typography elements to create large-scale work, often including installation or performance. I aim to create immersive spaces that captivate the observer, leading them into an alternate realm. Rooted in my identity and influenced by the Midwest and American socio-political landscape, my art serves as a vessel through which the interplay between the individual and society can be observed. My aspiration is for my works to be actively inhabited by the viewer. In my past work, I’ve used a variety of tapestries or clothing, hand-stitched and embroidered, to create large-scale installation work. While I still use this medium in my creative endeavors, I am currently focusing on creating a series of narrative works through the use of installation and video. I am captivated by the deep human connection to cinema and the almost transcendent experience it offers. I aspire to evoke similar feelings by the use of video within my work. I am most fascinated by how art can create conversation and encourage connection among strangers. It is through the recognition of our diverse histories that we create a more equitable and empathetic world.
Getting to where I am currently has not been easy, and yet, I still have so far to go. I’ve learned that leaning on your community can provide support during challenging times and create a sense of belonging that fosters growth and resilience. I’m very thankful for the connections I’ve made while living in Grand Rapids. The art community here is so tightly knit. It’s invaluable to have the mutual support of so many other artists while beginning an artistic career.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I do love hosting. One of my favorite things to do is show friends around the city. I would write down Morning Ritual, Lyon St Cafe, and Squibb as places to grab coffee. Lyon St. Cafe is convenient because it’s in my neighborhood, but also a lovely spot since Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket Bakery are on the same corner. We would naturally have to hit all those spots one morning; grab a coffee from Lyon St. Cafe, a croissant from Nantucket, and maybe pick up some groceries for dinner from Martha’s. I love to cook for people. Squibb is also such a great spot because of their wine and charcuterie options, alongside their coffee. Morning Ritual is a given, since they have one of the most creative coffee menus in town. Restaurants would have to include Zivio on Wealthy St for some great Greek/Turkish-inspired food, as well as Uncle Cheetah’s for a quick soup and sandwich option for lunch. Right across from Uncle Cheetah’s is Grand Rapid’s local theatre, the Wealthy Theatre, where we would have to attend a Tuesday night screening. One of my favorite places to hang out in town is Zabhaz, a small business vintage store on Division St. The owner, Jan, is always a delight to talk to and her store cultivates a wonderful vibe. Not to mention, it has some of the best vintage in town. Division St. is booming with great thrifts, so I wouldn’t be surprised if we spent an afternoon walking between each of the clothing stores. A few other favorite spots that can’t go without mention would be, Furniture City Creamery for ice cream, and Books & Mortar, a local bookstore.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’ve been very lucky to come from a family that cherishes art. I grew up with a lot of fantastic art around me. There was constant conversation surrounding fashion, photography, and cinema; my late stepdad was a great photographer and my grandmother had immaculate style. I owe a great deal of gratitude to my family for exposing me to new art forms and ideas and never discouraging my creative pursuits. I’m also grateful for my time at Kendall College of Art and Design, which has been transformative, thanks to the support of my creative friends and professors who have opened doors I couldn’t have accessed otherwise. And I’m deeply thankful for my partner, who has consistently stood by me, supporting every new idea, no matter how unconventional my ideas might sometimes be.

Website: https://www.sydneyebickel.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sydneyebickel/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRGSLHZDfMB6bF6cL4ZFKZA