The Textile Art Movement has been around since the dawn of time, when people used fabrics to protect themselves from the elements and provide warmth. Today, this movement is still alive and thriving in Alameda County, California, where fiber artists use a variety of materials to create works of art that communicate messages, emotions, and meanings. At the Fiber Arts Center of the Eastern Shore (FACES), visitors and locals alike can view historic and recent works by quilt and fiber artists from the Eastern Shore of Maryland and the Delmarva Peninsula. This venue also serves as a central networking center for fiber artists in the region, increases public access to fiber art and education on this topic, encourages and promotes creativity in all areas of fiber art, and works to preserve fiber art skills and traditions.
The International Fiber Arts Xl is a juried exhibition that presents a differentiated approach to traditional and innovative fiber techniques, as well as contemporary concepts for the use of traditional and unusual materials. Textile artists use a variety of media in their work, including yarns such as wool or cotton; fibers such as silk or linen; natural materials such as grasses or animal hair; and synthetic materials such as polyester or nylon. The movement began in Europe in the early 20th century, when artists began to explore new ways of creating art. Ann Johnston's artistic quilts made from her hand-dyed and freehand stitched fabrics are on display at exhibitions around the world.
CalRecycle defines “textiles” as items made of yarn, yarn, fabric, or cloth. Examples include clothing, fabric ornaments, curtains, and all natural and synthetic fabric fibers. This type of waste does not include fabric-covered furniture, mattresses, leather shoes, leather bags, or leather belts. Fiber art is a fine art style that uses textiles such as fabrics, yarns, and natural and synthetic fibers. It focuses on materials and the manual work involved as part of its meaning.
Fiber artworks are works of art that communicate some type of message, emotion, or meaning and go beyond the literal meaning of the materials. In Alameda County, California, there are many opportunities for those interested in exploring the Textile Art Movement. From exhibitions to workshops to lectures on this topic, there is something for everyone who wants to learn more about this captivating form of art.
