California Fibers: Historical References

The artist group California Fibers, in cooperation with Studio 203, is proud to present their new exhibit, California Fibers: Historical References. Curated by Aneesa Shami Zizzo, each work within the exhibit focuses on an aspect of history as told through the lens of fiber-art techniques including weaving, quilting, dyeing, basketry, and more. Some pieces focus on specific events in time; others choose more nebulous concepts and even mythology as their primary theme.

For example, in his tapestry, “Boro,” Michael F. Rohde wanted to pay homage to the Japanese patchwork technique of the same name. As he explains it in his artist statement, “The reverence for cloth is strong in many traditions, particularly in Japan. Scraps of fabric are not discarded, but recycled to new life.” For her mixed media work, “The Mask,” Peggy Widemann chose to focus on a more contemporary topic of masking. Her artist statement is also a call to action: “Be kind to others, wear a mask.”

“The Mask” by Peggy Widemann. Photo courtesy of Peggy Widemann

Other artists featured in the exhibit include Linda Anderson, Charlotte Bird, Carrie Burckle, Marilyn McKenzie Chaffee, Gail Fraser, Polly Jacobs Giacchina, Lydia Tjioe Hall, Susan Henry, Brecia Kralovic-Logan, Kathy Nida, Carol Nilson, Aneesa Shami, Rebecca Smith, Cameron Taylor-Brown, and Debby Weiss.

The exhibit is slated to run February 20 through March 28 at Studio 203 in Los Angeles, California, and is available to view in person by appointment only. For those who can’t make it in person, or who wish to keep their distance, the exhibit can also be viewed online at thestudio203.org, and a virtual walkthrough will also be available Saturday, February 27, at 3 pm. More information about Historical References and the artists featured can be found at the websites for both Studio 203 and California Fibers. Questions and information about scheduling a private showing can be sent to info@thestudio203.org.

Christina