Back to School Update - Mixed Media Fibre Course

The second year fibre course that I took last Fall focused on exploring 3D forms using traditional and experimental media. Each student also did a ten minute presentation on a fibre artist which was a great way to get exposed to and discuss different artists.

Early in September we went on a field trip to create an intimate nature project in Bragg Creek. Everyone worked on individual projects scattered over several acres and at the end of the day, we toured around to see them all. I started to build a relaxing personal space using coloured thread, grasses, twigs and found objects. However, a curious squirrel convinced me to alter the plan and I shifted to building him a play area with a diving board, tight-rope, trapeze, ring set, and ladder (a little hard to see here). I hope he enjoyed using it as much as I enjoyed making it. It was very interesting to see the variety of pieces and definitely a treat to enjoy a beautiful day - reminiscent of childhood days escaping chores.

Next came a paper sculpture project resulting in "Hidden Agenda" This is a deceptively large piece (over 10 ft long). It is made with hand-made paper laid on to a wire frame and was lit internally although this is not visible in this picture. Green silk fibres were draped across the mouth. I wanted to create an organic, plant-like structure that had both beauty and a little creepiness. My biggest challenge with paper sculpture is that the paper is extremely heavy and has little integrity when wet - it is more intent on paying attention to gravity than cooperating with me.




We also did a performance piece, not my favorite type of art for sure but interesting to learn about. Mine drew on parallels between the capriciousness of the wind and life in general. Ever tried doing origami with linens to create symbolic objects? Don't.

I finally got to do some needle-felting for the WunderKammern project. This assignment was inspired by the 16th century mania of collecting bizarre and fanciful objects. We were to create a mythical artifact and an attribution statement - as peculiar and extraordinary as possible, yet sort-of believable. I came up with Shamus, a homunculi deterrent decoy and a homunculus hoard. The concept being that homunculi are real; decoys were created to deter these territorial little beasties who have a nasty compulsion to pilfer little items.

It was fun to make someone a little nastier looking than I would normally make them.

The next challenge was to create a garment that transforms the body into an architectural or sculptural form. I have been wanting to really challenge myself with a large felt garment and experiment with different techniques. This seemed to be the perfect opportunity.

 On the left is the wool laid out for one half of my "Water Fall" garment (about 9 feet long - felt shrinks a lot). What was I thinking??? I admit that after over 40 hours of working on it by hand, I got exhausted enough to throw it in the washer and put it on hot and I am happy with the final product.