The Southeast Fibers Educators Association debuts its “In Flux” traveling textile exhibition from Oct. 1-25 at Slocumb Galleries. This exhibit is presented by the ETSU Department of Art & Design and Tennessee Arts Commission through the Arts Project Support grant.
The use of textiles within fiber arts refers to a fine art form that has been around since the beginning of civilization. Materials used consist of natural or synthetic fibers and other components such as fabric or yarn. The technique is very labor-intensive and requires a significant amount of manual labor to achieve the overall value and unity of the work.
The theme of the exhibit, “In Flux,” is based off the constant migration, immigration and overall resettlement of humans throughout history.
“As educators in the textile arts, the members of SEFEA are dedicated to the continuing interchange of knowledge, the exchange of ideas and the joy of creating unlimited possibilities within textile medium,” Exhibition Coordinator Lisa Kriner said. “SEFEA is committed to maintaining textile traditions while opening pathways for crossing new boundaries.”
Weaving student Maddie Kuziel learned the intricate process of fiber arts from her mother and later registered for an intermediate class at ETSU.
“One of the things that I think is so interesting about fiber art is the functionality of it,” Kuziel said. “Textiles are integrated into so much of our lives, and the way artists are able to take a medium that seems so commonplace, yet make it into something profound and unique, is really amazing.”
According to Kuziel, the interpretation of the art is what makes it new and exciting.
“Take quilting, for example, which is such a domestic, ancient practice, and look at what modern artists are able to do with that medium,” Kuziel said. “Fiber art lends itself to infinite interpretations, and there really is something for everyone. “
This exhibit is free and open to the public.
