TWISTED STRANDS -  VOICES WITH COMMON THREADS.

TWISTED STRANDS -  VOICES WITH COMMON THREADS

Curator:  Charo Oquet

Participating Artists: Patricia L. Cooke |Marina Font | Amy Gelb | Anna Goracsko | Jeanne Jaffe | Regina Jestrow | Mary Larsen | Laura Marsh | Janet Mueller  | Charo Oquet | Veronica  Pasman | Karen Rifas | Jonathan Rockford | Lisa Rockford | Nicholas Waquespack |

Contemporary art has evolved beyond traditional categories, as we see a growing number of artists incorporating fiber and textile into their works. The use of unconventional materials has caused a shift in the art world, blurring the lines between design, craft and fine art. With this exhibition featuring Miami artists, we aim to explore this intersection and showcase the vital role that materiality plays in the creation of meaningful works of art. By highlighting the innovative use of fiber and textiles within contemporary art practices, we hope to challenge perceptions of what constitutes 'high art' and encourage a more inclusive view of artistic expression.

In the contemporary art world, there are no limits as to what constitutes as art. While fabric and textile may be considered one of the oldest mediums, their relevance still prevails today. The ability to combine various materials to create something new and unique is a fundamental characteristic of contemporary art. With this in mind, it becomes clear that an artwork's form and matter - its materiality - play a crucial role in creating meaning for the viewer. In today's society, we recognize that an artwork's purpose, context, and expression are not just a result of its subject matter, but also its physical composition. By showcasing Miami artists who use fiber and textile art to analyze the impact of unconventional materials on contemporary art practices, we aim to emphasize the significant role that materiality has in creating a meaningful dialogue between the artist and the viewer.

Fashion has been subject to misinterpretation and misrepresentation as a shallow industry, primarily focused on garments. However, it has now become apparent that fashion is a tool for empowerment. Women, in particular, can use fashion to make themselves visible, command attention, and convey their message through their attire.

Artists in financially deprived areas have developed the ability to utilize the resources available in their surroundings to create works of art. They often repurpose materials that would otherwise be discarded or recycled.

The focus of fabric fiber art has evolved beyond the physical matter and now encompasses the process and materiality. This includes aspects related to the work's physical existence, history, and condition, as well as the artist's personal history and cultural relevance of the materials used. Material art, a term often used today, emphasizes the specific materials used to create and the resulting image or style. Artists have experimented with various media to achieve this objective. Our exhibition features eight artists who have mastered the use of materiality to create enchanting and captivating works of art.

When contemplating a work of art, it's essential to consider the materiality that brings it to life. Objects made from materials are rich with symbolic contexts, values, and meanings. They carry with them various interpretations and sensory experiences. Our exhibition centers on the practice of Miami artists who specialize in fiber and textile art. Their work focuses on reinterpreting the historical, social, and political contexts of these materials. Textiles are often overlooked when it comes to art. However, observations of the creative world have shown that the overlap between design, craft, and art is becoming increasingly prevalent.

PARTICIPATING ARTISTS