November 1–30, 2024 @ Johnson County Center for the Arts
The importance of fiber arts in the Appalachian mountains, around the world and throughout history cannot be overstated. The need for warm clothing or the desire to have beautifully woven tapestries is just a part of the story.
Though the term Fiber Arts, used by curators and arts historians, might not have come into regular use until the late 1940s and early 1950s, it is certainly one of mankind's oldest art forms.
The Johnson County Center for the Arts’ Gallery on Main, Mountain City, Tennessee, showcases the Blue Ridge Fiber Guild members as its featured artists for November.
“I am excited to introduce these wonderful artists and their works to Johnson County,” said Mona Alderson, a Johnson County artist and Blue Ridge Fiber Guild member. “The guild members are excited to share our decorative and functional fiber works and the Gallery on Main is the perfect venue to display the diverse works we produce.”
The Blue Ridge Fiber Guild was formed in Watauga County, North Carolinain 1984, to provide a venue for fellowship and inspiration among people with any level of interest and ability in any fiber arts and crafts. Members are versed in a full range of fiber-related skills, and these will be evident in the works displayed. Skills include spinning wool and other fibers, weaving on a variety of looms, knittingand crocheting. Several members dye their own fiber and cloth. Others engage in surface design techniques, such as painting on cloth, screen-printing, photo manipulation, stitchingand embroidery.
Guild member and nationally known artist, Wen Redmond, blends photography with fiber art. In her artist statement she says, “My fascination with photography finds expression through printing directly onto created mixed media substrates and treated natural fibers to craft unique textural images.”
Sharing knowledge and skills with each other and the surrounding community is part of the Guild’s mission statement. Through meetings, demonstrations, workshops, and classes, the Guild promotes fiber arts and crafts through participation in many events, showsand exhibits throughout the High Country.
“I moved to the mountains to learn to weave,” said guild member, Jeanne Lawrence. “I love exploring all forms of fiber arts, mostly knitting now. I’m drawn to cables and lace and three-dimensional creations. There’s something magical about knitting fairies.”
Another knitter and group member, Vicki Skywark, whose background is in Southern Appalachian studies and education for gifted children in underserved areas says, “My entire life I’ve been fascinated with a thread turned back on itself.” Her description of the knitting process.
At the Gallery on Main show you can expect to see knitted and woven shawls, hats, and other cozy wearables. Wall hangings and handwoven table linens, kitchen towelsand quilts will all be on display and are perfect for holiday giving.
For more information on the Blue Ridge Fiber Guild visit their website at https://blueridgefiberguild.org, or Facebook and Instagram at Blue Ridge Fiber Guild.
The Blue Ridge Fiber Guild Show Opening is Friday, Nov. 1 from 4-6 p.m. at the Johnson County Center for the Arts’ Gallery on Main, 129 W. Main Street, Mountain City Tennessee. There will be live music and light refreshments.
Category: Exhibits