eXperiments on X: An Xhibit of Weaving
Redwood Falls Public Library
509 South Lincoln
Redwood Falls, MN
M-TH 10:00 am – 8:00 pm; Fri 10:00 am – 5:00 pm; Sat 10:00 am – 2:00 pm; Closed Sunday
Contact: 507-616-7420, RedwoodFallsLibrary.org
The opening is Friday, November 15, from 2:30-4:30pm. At 3pm, I will present a lecture on Norwegian tapestry weaving, “From Virgins to Spaceships: A Visual Voyage Through Norwegian Tapestry.”
Artist Statement:
I am a handweaver of contemporary textiles inspired by Scandinavian folk textiles. The language of my looms is based on centuries-old techniques, learned in weaving school in Norway. The core graphic impact of old folk textiles drives each new weaving, in a search for balance, color and boldness. Even when the planning process is computer-assisted, or a technique is done at a new scale or in unusual materials, I honor the fine craftsmanship of the past.
Three years ago I started a series inspired by a set of 19th century coverlets from the area of Kristiansand, Norway, which include bands of geometric shapes woven in a lesser-known technique, danskbrogd. I was fascinated with the use of Xs, diamonds and zig-zag elements in a beautiful and graphic jumble of bands. The overall composition of individual pieces is never perfectly symmetrical, suggesting a constant play between the weaver and the work on the loom during its creation, a search for a beautiful whole. This mirrors my work process today.
Xs remained a constant through my exploration, but I also used the danskbrogd technique for images. My first, and smallest piece, “No Protection,” included two guns. Later, a woven moose took up more than half the surface.
In centuries past, the Xs and diamonds may have been recognized as religious or folk symbols; today, they are interesting abstract shapes. What symbols have power or meaning today? One piece in my series has a row of nuclear bombs—the ongoing hostility with North Korea dominated the news while I was weaving it.
A final piece on display is not in the same series with Xs or danskbrogd technique. It features a bright red wooly pile star.
No traditional craft remains vital unless it reflects the contemporary craftsperson. This body of work represents an homage to the 19th century, and a reflection of our own.
If you are in western Minnesota from November 18-December 31, 2019, stop by the library!