When I was growing up, my grandma and her quilting circle made functional quilts from scraps of fabric. She also embroidered dishtowels, aprons, and tablecloths with simple patterns. I didn’t consider it much back then however, most fiber or textile art starts from the humble necessity of everyday life just like my grandma’s handiwork.
Today fiber art has evolved into a captivating medium that merges textile techniques with boundless creative expression, far surpassing the endeavors of my grandma’s quilting circle. Your home is looking for some of art in this style. Let’s take a look at this artistic tapestry (sorry, pun intended).
Fiber Art uses Multiple Techniques
Fabric art, also known as textile art or fiber art, encompasses a wide range of techniques and styles, including quilting, embroidery, weaving, basketry, knitting, felting, beading and dyeing. Some pieces combine these aspects, showcasing even more craftsmanship. In the piece on the left, Tlinglit artist Lily Hope uses traditional weaving techniques with wool and cedar. The quilt on the right by Jean Jurgenson uses traditional quilting techniques but creates a modern look.
MOdern Fiber ART Challenges Convention
Contemporary artists like Vanessa Barragao and Natalie M. Ball are pushing the boundaries of traditional techniques, leading to a renaissance in fiber art. The large blue and yellow mixed media piece below incorporates fabric, snakeskin, leather, pine, acrylic, porcupine hair dear rawhide, beads, crystals and bullet shells, tapping into Ball’s African American, Klamath, and Modoc heritage. She combines a traditional Native American star quilt and embroidery with modern sports apparel. Barrangao’s piece on the right below was inspired by the impact of ocean pollution and climate change. Her detailed work uses sustainable production, including recycled and upcycled materials to create a piece that looks like, as she says, a coral garden.
Textile Work Carries a Legacy
Fiber art holds a rich history and cultural significance, as it has been used for centuries to create functional objects and decorative items that reflect cultural heritage and traditions worldwide. Its accessibility and versatility make it an appealing medium for artists and enthusiasts alike, as anyone with a passion for creativity can experiment with fabric art. The loom weaving by Marion Weymes and the blanket by Tessa Sayers below are both examples of artistry that can be displayed or serve a functional purpose in your home.
Process and MAterials Bound to the Earth
Fiber art is deeply connected to nature and ecology, often incorporating sustainable materials and techniques and drawing inspiration from the natural world. The tactile beauty, craftsmanship, and texture of fiber art contribute to its enduring appeal, inviting viewers to explore its intricate details and rich narratives. Below, Mariana Baertl focuses on natural fibers from Peru, her native country, and hand-dyes the yarn. Cassandra Dias’ small embroidery pieces are inspired by picturesque landscapes.
While all of these pieces are amazing, you may still be left wanting to see more. The good news is that there is plenty of great fiber art left to explore. Here are a couple of books to keep your interest. Check out this book on contemporary textile artists or this one on a legendary weaving program.
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Did you image so many different styles of fiber art? And this just scratches the surface. Leave a comment below and tell me what you favorite piece(s) might be.
