The Language of Fiber

The impact of fiber art as a vital aspect of contemporary art is now recognized internationally, sharing in the multi-faceted pluralism that is so evident in the work of today’s artists. In fiber art, an understanding and respect for traditional techniques becomes the foundation for the development of a personal vision in interpretation and innovation. Artists using fiber share with artists in other media, the need for exploring ideas related to the interaction of form, color, texture, illusion and imagery. Current activity of artists who create in the fiber medium in the Northeastern States reflects this great diversity in form and expressive intent.

            The exhibition LANGUAGE OF FIBER is designed to introduce our audience to a variety of eloquent statements that are uniquely personal and interpretive. The artists use various methods of textile weaving, dyeing, and fiber manipulation that have historic origins relating to many ancient cultures.

The nine artists selected for the exhibition in consultation with Paul Smith, Director of the American Craft Museum, New York City, reside in New York or neighboring states. Their work exemplifies several of the current directions in contemporary fiber art. While the complete scope of the diverse fiber “language” cannot be fully revealed in a single exhibition each artist’s work in the exhibition was selected to convey a unique aspect of the fiber language integrated with the requisite mastery of technique. Works range from small, lyrical articulations to large-scale panels and constructions in fiber manipulation, weaving, and textile surface design.

            The Burchfield Art Center is proud to present LANGUAGE OF FIBER as the third exhibition in its series focusing on craft media; the LANGUAGE OF WOOD and the LANGUAGE OF CLAY are its predecessors.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  Edna M. Lindeman, Director