Fiberart International - My Favorite Piece

Yes. I do have a favorite piece in Fiberart International 2013. There are more works to share, and I will. However, editing nearly 300 photos takes a bit of time. So, I thought to share my favorite until the others are ready.

This piece caught my eye as Pam and I entered the second gallery of the Pittsburgh Center for the Arts. The sculptural quality reached out and teased, entreating me to move closer, to see if it really was woven with what I thought it was. Instead...wanting to save the best for last...I viewed every other piece in the room first, before, at last, moving to stand before

Sandra Jane Heard, US

Vestiges of Emancipation, 2011

mixed media, vintage woven steel tape measures

The sculpture takes the form of four female torsos, hand woven from vintage steel tape measures. They are presented in a frozen metamorphosis between the opposing forces of restraint and freedom. The materials were chosen to exploit their weathered quality and to add a sense of conformism. My intent is to express the struggle and resilience of the suffragettes. I hope that the work serves as a testament to the unity and steadfastness of the suffragette movement, while also expressing the continuing struggle for equality and freedom still being sought by women around the world today.*

I was enthralled. And still am. Obviously the directors of the Fiberart International were too as Vestiges of Emancipation was awarded the Fiberart International 2013 Director's Award.

I feel a connection to this work on a number of levels...too many to list. Vestiges of Emancipation and Sandra's immense creativity, artistry and vision will stay with me for quite a while. I hope it is so with you as well.


*artist statement from FI 2013 exhibition catalog