Weaving is a building project where the loom imposes its own limits and possibilities. As in any construction project, there is a sequence of decisions, many before I thread the loom, that remain a distinct part of the final piece - there is no going back or redoing, and no jumping ahead. I find great joy in the planning, the rhythm of growing a weaving row by row, and a physicality that demands my complete attention.
In this current series, Lines, I am designing within a grid, exploring ways to play with multiple colors, and to take advantage of how light reflects differently across woven and unwoven threads. As I weave, I continue to be intrigued with the play of pattern, color, depth and light across the surface. I’m interested in how I can push the structure, loosen it in some way, so impulse and hand and curiosity enter the dialogue. I am most satisfied with a little chaos, where you sense the structure and underlying order, but you can’t see it clearly or discern exactly what is happening. Taking work off the loom is always a discovery.
I had an earlier 25-year career as a weaver, selling one-of-a-kind jackets nationally as well as commissioned wall work, but then spent 20 years in university administration, where work in my studio was a weekend and evening pursuit. In 2016 I left the university to return to my studio full-time. My commitment is to simply show up at my studio every day. I’m totally immersed in the journey at this point – grateful that I have the privilege of time and energy to go wherever this exploration takes me