As an artist, I am drawn to fibers because of their familiarity and softness. I started my fiber journey with dyeing fabric, because I was intrigued by the way it transformed in the chemicals. I decided that I should use the dyed fabric for something, so I started making wall hangings. I would make designs, and my friends would say, "What is it?" or, "What is it going to be?" I then realized that my friends wanted to see something they could interact with. They all expected fabric to be something you wear or cover up with. In essence, it seemed like seeing my work wasn't enough. They wanted to experience it further. Rather than keep fighting the viewer's inclination to interact with my fiber artwork, I decided to embrace it. I then decided to make wearable art, so that people can not only look at the art, but can get into it and let it become part of them.

As I learned to use types of fabric more suitable for wearing as opposed to quilting, I became intrigued at how different fabrics respond to dyeing and cutting. Some fabrics, such as knits, will stretch. Some will curl. Other types of fabric can fray or unravel. Sometimes, the colorful pattern on the fabric will change based on the positioning of the cuts. These fabrics all respond in their own way to my scissors. I decided to explore those reactions, and make wearable art that incorporated them. Basically, I find satisfaction in cutting up a piece of fabric and then putting it back together again. There is something fascinating about the process of tearing it down and rebuilding it into something completely different.


Photo by Don Distel