Throughout time and over various cultures, humans have used fibers in similar ways to construct a variety of objects. This exhibit utilizes over 80 pieces from the Museum's permanent collection to examine how similar construction methods have been used to create vastly different objects.
Organized by the Springfield Art Museum, the exhibition will include primarily textiles, but also prints, paintings, and textile working tools and equipment. Pieces with similar construction methods will be juxtaposed to show the variety of textile applications and construction methods, giving a glimpse into the culture that created the pieces.
The five categories in the exhibit (embroidery, weaving, knitting, sewing, and quilting) will highlight the versatility of working in the fiber arts. The exhibit will feature a 17th century French tapestry, a rug designed by Henri Matisse, and a quilt made by the Springfield chapter of the Ladies of the Grand Army of the Republic, among other objects.
This exhibit is guest curated by Greta Russell, Registrar at the Springfield Art Museum, and Rachel Johnson, Director of the Lake Region Heritage Center in Devil's Lake, North Dakota. The exhibit will include a free gallery guide as well as a hands-on educational area.