Wearable art moves out in the world. It influences people. A. Handwoven garments are a kind of armor that enhances. B. Handwoven cloth puts beauty in the world. C. The drape of the handwoven fabric gives comfort, not unlike a hug.

As a designer/handweaver, which part comes first? It takes a lifetime of learning a craft to get to the point where an idea can be executed with the artist's voice. In my opinion, techniques contribute to the original concept but shouldn't overwhelm the completed garment. Color, drape, and fit are still essential to the final product.

It is midnight. From the fourth floor of my room at the Hotel Pendini, I am watching a store display window being changed for a high-end retail store. The window is hinged to open out onto the sidewalk. Workers are busy cleaning the glass and installing electrical fittings, as the new window display components sit on the cobblestone street, wrapped and cushioned for shipping. It is an elaborate and shiny display!

The August and September calendar pages are full. Not only do I have 3 upcoming shows, but I am going to study Jacquard weaving this fall. I continue to pursue new technology to use with my weaving and designing skills. What is that? Well, the Jacquard loom uses punch cards to create elaborate designs How does a Jacquard loom work? The Jacquard loom is a loom developed in the early 1800s that used a series of punch cards to control weave operations. It is named fo

I am the featured artist in the Fiber Arts Studio Gallery exhibit that runs through June 19 at the Lincoln City Cultural Center. For this exhibit, I put together some posters to go along with the collections. As you walk through the room, these posters are a guide to understanding the thoughts and inspiration behind the work. The Waterfall Scarves are an idea that thinks outside of the box of the typical handwoven scarf. Color, texture and process are used in an innovative

You are invited to meet the artist Opening reception April 29, 5-7 PM Fiber Arts Studio Gallery, Lincoln City Cultural Center 540 NE Hwy 101, Lincoln City, OR The Fiber Arts Studio Gallery at the Lincoln City Cultural Center has invited me to be the featured artist. From April 29 to June 19, 2022, I will have an exhibit and sale of my handwoven jackets, coats, and scarves. The exhibit will have insights into my creative process. Friday, April 29, 5-7 PM Meet the A

Every year, I like to create a video that is an editorial of the creative process. This year, a trip down the Oregon Coast was the point of inspiration. Watching the water was the starting point. From that, a color palette was developed for the cloth. Then the fabric is cut and sewn. Making a video documents where these ideas began. These unique garments tell a story of the Pacific Northwest. Enjoy.

Here is a short video of Vests made from my handwoven cloth. In addition to weaving the cloth, I enjoy adding other textile techniques to the garments. This week I will be working on a custom order vest. I can't wait to begin. Custom orders begin with a visit by Zoom and are followed by swatches mailed to the client. This way, the color and texture are actually in the client's hands for the full experience of color and texture.

Blackberry Jam A friend brought a gift of homemade Blackberry jam. I held it up to the light and was struck by the rich purple color and the golden seeds. I immediately went into the studio and designed the warp. Each warp thread needed to capture the color of lush, ripe fruit. Everybody else ate the jam on fresh scones. I kept the memory of the color. Now this yardage is available in the Hooded Shawl shown below. The Hooded Shawl is a 3-in-1 travel piece that can be worn

Some find sea shells at the beach. This is what The Oregon Weaver takes away from a visit to the beach.

This year I have explored many different ways to create “content” videos. Without being able to experience the fabrics first hand, these videos become the next best thing to trying on a garment. These videos offer a glimpse into the Oregon Weaver’s World of Wearable Art. Virtual Art Fairs are here to stay. Stay tuned for the upcoming Spring on-line events. Enjoy.

Model Oksana Bell wears the Windy City Coat and is at her best dancing like a leaf in the wind. I have had trouble sleeping lately. When most are fast asleep, I spend these wakeful hours creating short videos. The concept of showing the fabric in motion has been driving me to learn some video skills. Art Fairs, that were cancelled last year, are just starting to plan for Fall 2021. Until we can meet in person again, please enjoy these short videos. Photos by TearSheet

Here is a short video to inspire your scarf wearing ideas. See more of these scarf curls on the website. www.theoregonweaver.com

Inspiration draws upon a trip to the beach at the Oregon Coast.

The Oregon Weaver talks about color.