"Inch by inch" is what I feel like I'm doing on the kudzu right now. And more than a few inches won't be woven over the next couple of weeks while I'm on a trip to see the Howard Finster exhibit at Krannart Art Museum in Illinois. Getting back from there, I'll do a quick load of laundry and crawl back in the car to go to Knoxville for my first stint of weaving on the "Local Industry" part of the Anne Wilson "Wind/Rewind/Weave" exhibit at the Knoxville Museum of Art. A blog by one volunteer describes some of the experience of being part of that exhibit and I'm quite excited to be able to take my turn soon.
OK... I'm leaving the studio shortly and going home to pack a suitcase. Before I leave here I need to collect a small loom, a box of embroidery floss of a million colors, sketch book. I have plans to weave on the road (no, I'm not doing the driving!) and as I can while in Illinois. Got to get the Enchanted Pathways piece finished soon!
Ha! I don't remember where it came from, but I used to do it with my kids, turning slowly, and ending with "then SUDDENLY... I Pounce!" They loved the anticipation of the pounce, which generally ended up in a tickle or wrestling match with lots of giggles. Even Wooster used to participate and bounce. Must reinstate it with the grandkids and Booker.
ReplyDeleteHave a great trip.
Thanks so much for the info that you gave to me-a brand new weaver- I have wanted to sit down and write a longer, more appropriate one, but ... time...
ReplyDeleteI have discovered that you are aquainted with the inlaws of my cousin, Jean Owens. She speaks highly of you. You must have worked with her husband's father before he passed a few years ago, I believe.
I would love to take one of your classes, and have been invited to stay with Jean(I live in Va). Thought it would be a good idea to try a project on my own, first. Maybe I will know the right questions to ask aftewards. I have learned a great deal from the internet. It helps to see theorks in progress that you post, as well. I have purchased the book The Key to Weaving by Mary Black. There is a tapestry section in it that has some basic information and examples. I am trying to build a loom that I hope will do everything that I need it to do. I have just purchased an 8 harness countermarch loom. I think tapestry will be easier on a vertical surface though.
Hi Cheryl,
ReplyDeleteWOW! Jean is married to Robert--his father, Bob, was my colleague and mentor for decades!! His untimely death in 2004 was a sad shock for his family and his many friends. I still miss his gentle guidance in my life; even though he was a potter and sculptor, the way he approached his life as an artist was a tremendous inspiration for me. My belief in myself as an artist, someone who works at that task every day, comes largely from watching him do that very thing.
About building a tapestry loom, if you haven't done so yet take a look at Archie Brennan's website for his loom plans. The copper pipe frame loom is one I use for teaching and some of my own small work. I've got a link for him at the left side of my blog.
And--being in Virginia you might want to check out Joan Griffin's website (link at the left of my blog)... she's in Charlottesville and teaches tapestry classes at her studio. Next one is coming up in March, I think.
Happy weaving to you!
I, too, will be weaving at the KMA this week! It has been an incredible experience. I weave at the Appalachian Arts Crafts Center in Norris, TN, and our group has been weaving every other Thursday. I'm looking forward to reading about your experience there. (BTW, the quote is from the Three Stooges, and ends in "Niagara Falls".)
ReplyDeleteHappy travels, Tommye. howard Finster is legendary around here, being from Summerville. I saw one of his pieces in the home of a friend the other day. Life does get in the way of weaving progress sometimes, but it all manages to get done. I have been muddling through Silvia's assignment, but don't seem to be making much progress. Be safe and enjoy
ReplyDeleteI don't think they have passed any laws yet about tapestry weaving while driving.....but it's probably more fun with someone else at the wheel! Have a great trip!
ReplyDeleteI thought of you yesterday while I walking Shadow near an area of kudzu that is quite old. The intertwining vines easily made up a "rope" that was 3-4 inches in diameter. It was quite impressive. Your trips sounds wonderful! Enjoy!
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