How did you start with art?
From a young age I loved creating things. Other interests have come and gone, but making art has always stuck around. After I was accepted to Massachusetts College of Art and Design, I toured the school and fell in love with the fibers department studios. There were many beautiful wood floor looms, big windows and a huge yarn closet. I knew I wanted to learn how to weave and be in that amazing space. Once I learned, the process, the possibilities and the repetitive motions kept me coming back.
What artists or movements have had an impact on you?
Many of the fiber artists of the 60’s and 70’s like Ruth Asawa, Kay Sekimachi, and Francoise Grossen have made a lasting impact on me and my work. I love how they use unconventional materials and how their works bridge the gap between textiles and sculpture, which is something I aim to do in my work too. Another group which has influenced my work is the artists and designers of the Bauhaus movement. I particularly resonate with the work of Annie and Joseph Albers and the unifying of art and craft as well as form and function.
Who or what are some of your artistic inspirations?
Inspiration for my work comes from many different places. I spent most of my childhood in rural Vermont, so I have drawn much inspiration from nature. I’ve lived in cities since 2010 but escaping to nature has become a great reset for me. Also, different areas of design like interior, graphic, and architecture are a big source of inspiration. I particularly love interior design and all the elements that come together to create it.
What are you working on right now and what is next?
Currently I’m working on a series of sculptural woven pieces. I’ve been weaving with a rigid paper yarn that can be manipulated to create different forms after it’s off the loom. This series called, Suspended Garden, references moments and memories observing nature. The pieces draw inspiration from trailing plants, light streaming between trees, the setting sun, driving down a tree lined street and other snapshots of nature. I’m excited to keep exploring this series and plan to experiment with adding color in new ways to the paper yarn. Hopefully an installation or exhibit will follow!
