For generations it was called, simply, “crafting.” Anything associated with fiber, cords, threads, weaving, crocheting, sewing, knitting, or fabric in general was regarded by the art world—when the art world even regarded the medium—as a mere pastime for the well-skilled amateur. The 577 Foundation in Perrysburg demonstrates how fiber art is much more nuanced than “crafting”.
Blurring the line between art and craft, the foundation has held fiber577— a juried contemporary fiber arts exhibition— since 2008.Scheduled this year for June 10-12, fiber577 will take a break from the exhibition format, instead offering an entire weekend of workshops showcasing the artistic use of fiber materials and fiber-influenced mixed media.
An Evolving Event
“It all started with a community art fair, originally sponsored by the Perrysburg Area Arts Council, called Art Dabbler,” says Mary Mennel, Executive Director of the 577 Foundation. “It was suggested to our board that it would be a good idea to have an art show focussed on fiber art. At first in conjunction with the Arts Council and later as an independent project we have run event.” With the exception of its first year, fiber577 was an juried art exhibit specifically highlighting local and regional contemporary fiber artists.
This year’s workshop weekend concept found its genesis in feedback from previous show attendees. “One of our primary missions is to provide educational opportunities as well as to highlight local and national artists,” says Mennel. “People told us that it would be fun to go to workshops to learn more about all the wonderful art they had been seeing in past years. The 2016 event is in response to that input.”
The weekend will open on Friday, June 10 with the appearance of Florida creator Cindy Steiler, a mixed-media textile artist and alternative-process photographer. She will be discussing her path as an artist including her inspirations, her recent travels to Wales and Portugal, along with the growth of textile art as a mainstream art medium. The 2015 fiber577 featured artist, Steiler had a solo show during the weekend last year.
Old Medium, Modern Art
The dozen workshops spread across the weekend offer a wide range of fiber art styles from traditional to exotic. Included are the more familiar materials and techniques of needle work, traditional rug hooking, beadweaving, fabric dyeing and tapestry weaving.
Modern technique and design workshops in fiber techniques are available as well. Steiler will be doing a two-day workshop exploring the printing of botanicals and other photographic images utilizing the cyanotype process. The wide-ranging class schedule also includes fabric book making, mixed media and 2D collage design.
Limited Time and Space
The workshops are all limited in size and many are filling up fast. Each workshop will have a waiting list for cancellations. Classes range in price from $40-$200, and each class recommends different skill levels and tools. There are beginners workshops available as well as several events suited for the more advanced artist. For a complete list of times, prices, and prerequisites see the fiber577 website at fiber577.com.
“This weekend is precisely what Ms. Stranahan wanted from this foundation,” claims Mennel enthusiastically, referring to the late benefactor of the Foundation. “She wanted a space that was engaging but which also responded to what the community wanted. The fiber577 workshop weekend meets our fundamental mission, to be educational, environmental, experimental, and above all to ensure everyone enjoys their time at our foundation.”
fiber577, June 10-12, 2016
The 577 Foundation, 577 Front St., Perrysburg. 577foundation.org, fiber577.com
