If you thought felt was used only in hats and other fashion accessories, the upcoming installation at the Mississippi Valley Textile Museum will be an eye-opener. “Transformations” opens on January 21, 2014 and runs until March 15. The exhibit features the work of Canadian fibre artists Maggie Glossop and Andrea Graham who use the ancient art of felt making to create unique works that fascinate and delight. Both are inspired by nature but are very different in approach and style.
Maggie Glossop has been working with fibres since the mid-1970s. She first explored the creative uses of fibres as a spinner and weaver, and then, 25 years ago, joined the vanguard of textile artists exploring felt making as a medium for fine art. Using wool and other natural fibres that she has dyed, she creates wonderful textured landscapes and sculptured wall pieces. Maggie shares her enthusiasm and creativity with young and old and has received many awards and grants to support and further her outreach as a teacher as well as for her works, which are displayed in public, corporate and private spaces.
“Rocks, water, trees and sky – these are the subjects of my art,” says Glossop. “I am drawn to the ever-changing natural environment that surrounds me. I invite the viewer to focus on the beauty that is all around us but is often overlooked. I hope to awaken the viewer to see again or perhaps to see for the first time with new eyes and, having seen, appreciate what was always there.”
Andrea Graham is a multimedia artist residing in rural Ontario. Andrea exhibits, teaches and lectures internationally and is recognized for her technical skill and innovation. She is a 2013 Niche Award Finalist and was also named one of the top influences in contemporary fibre art by Fiber Art Now magazine. Andrea was Artist in Residence at Queen’s University in 2011 and has taught workshops for numerous guilds and conferences throughout North America and Europe. Using both traditional and modern felt-making techniques, she transforms wool fibres and produces sculptures that evoke living organisms. U
“Life cycles silently occur and often go without notice, “says Andrea. “We acknowledge these cycles at times of transformation, which can elicit feelings from awe and reflection to unease and denial. These transformations remind us of life’s dichotomy of persistence and surrender. Whether we neglect or intervene, we are at the mercy of these processes. In expressing these transformations using humble materials and simple form, I seek to bring about these primal emotions we feel at these pivotal moments.”
Don’t miss this joint exhibit by two exceptional artists. There will be a vernissage from 2 to 4 p.m., February 1, 2014. The Mississippi Valley Textile Museum is located at 3 Rosamond St. E., Almonte.
www.mvtm.ca
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