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Document Type

Image

Publication Date

Spring 2020

Keywords

HexWeb, Skin, Honeycomb, Kozo, Weaving, Tapestry, Performance Art, Art

Abstract

In my mixed media sculptures, I have been exploring the isolated relationship of each viewer with their individual environment, and how that relates to the viewer’s personal relationship with nature. I bring traditional weaving, paper, and sculptural practices into the modern light of a world affected by climate change and abstract it in order to add to the ongoing dialogue about the environment.

I found that kozo, a mulberry bark fiber, had the most exciting history with heavily prominent roots in papermaking. Kozo consists of long fibers that can create a strong, thin paper most commonly used as washi (Japanese paper). It takes a lot of time to prepare and involves many steps such as cooking and beating.

In my current work, I have been upcycling honeycomb structured cardboard that was donated to the WWU Art and Art History Department called HexWeb® honeycomb. I cut it up into various sizes and shapes and dip these in kozo pulp. Once dry, I weave the pieces into a continuous tapestry type structure.

After creating the large structure, I spend some time photographing and filming the piece in different places I occupy, evoking my isolated relationship with this work. It’s becoming an extension of myself, my second “skin” protecting me from the outside world, particularly during the chaotic current time of COVID-19. It can be a nest or a shelter and, utilizing the work now as a performance, I can reconnect myself to the natural world.

Subjects - Topical (LCSH)

Environment (Art); Social isolation; Skin in art; Weaving in art; Paper mulberry

Genre/Form

student projects; kozo (fiber); cardboard; resin-coated paper

Type

Text

Rights

Copying of this document in whole or in part is allowable only for scholarly purposes. It is understood, however, that any copying or publication of this document for commercial purposes, or for financial gain, shall not be allowed without the author’s written permission.

Language

English

Format

image/jpeg

Download Medium Thumbnail

Keywords

HexWeb, Skin, Honeycomb, Kozo, Weaving, Tapestry, Performance Art, Art

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