Sidney Mullis is a sculptor who lives and works in Pittsburgh, PA. She is building a make-believe forest to recenter playful and imaginative attitudes, largely lost in adulthood. In this forest, uncommon materials like teddy bears, sand, bicycle streamers, sea shells, and olive pits are transformed into fantastical plant-like forms and shapes.

Q & A:

Who is an artist(s) that you really enjoy and/or has inspired your work? 

My favorite artist as a teenager was Tim Burton. It was the first time I was introduced to art that could be scary. It made me realize that art did not have to be conventionally pretty and could be celebrated for its mystery.  

What is one piece of advice you would like to give to young artists? 

Listen to your gut.  

Where would you really like to visit and why?

I really enjoy hotels and airports. They are transitional spaces that all look rather the same. Unremarkable non-places. Most everyone there is considered a traveler, and for a moment, you are stripped of the weight of your everyday identity that you wear and the regular place-place you inhabit. It’s a nice and rare feeling.