This week we would like to share a wonderful article with all who visit here. It is written by Jed Perl of American Craft magazine, and is titled “The Artisanal Urge.” In it he addresses many pertinent issues that face the artist/crafter today. As our technology advances, he brings up the fact that the most current art trends seem to be very technological as well, with very little–if any–evidence of the human hand. “Creative spirits,” Perl writes, “whether painters or potters, cannot leave a mark on the world if they have not first left a mark on their materials.”

As hand weavers, we feel a very deep connection to what we do, and the work of our hands is evident in all that we create. Whether one labels what they do as art or craft, the creative impulse that flows through comes from the same source. We believe that handmade goods have much more character and care in them, that by putting our time in, what comes out is truly special. Unfortunately, much of the handmade traditions are becoming more and more rare, especially here in the United States. “That industrial chill is reassuring to an art audience that knows the chain stores and the suburban malls far better than the galleries and the museums. The artisanal image can provoke anxiety, because its uniqueness demands a unique response,” writes Perl.

You can read the rest of his excellent article here:

http://www.americancraftmag.org/article.php?id=2324

Also, in thinking about the gray area between art and craft, we are transitioning here into more or an artistic mode. In trying to expand what we do, we have been able to more fully explore what we can do with weaving, sewing, materials, and colors. We are currently working on a series of wall hangings in an intricate, yet modern and sleek block weave. These pieces are woven with high quality silk and cotton yarns that could be designed to accent any space. Contact us if you are interested, or visit the blog again soon to see more!