Unraveling Art's Boundaries: Celebrating Fiber Arts in My Sculptural Mixed Media Journey

In this post, I'm excited to share a glimpse into my artistic journey, exploring how the world of Fiber Arts has touched my own work in mixed media. As a visual artist from Caracas, Venezuela, now based in Austin, Texas, I look for (and find) inspiration almost everywhere.

I recently had the pleasure of diving into Katy Hessel's book, "The Story of Art Without Men," and it was a revelation that sparked a newfound appreciation for a particular feminist perspective in the art world.

The book took me on a captivating journey through the history of feminist art, and one particular aspect that resonated deeply with me was how feminist artists utilized the needle as a powerful tool of protest in the 1960s.

“The Story of Art Without Men,” by Katy Hessel.

Up until that era, Fiber Arts were often dismissed as a lesser, ‘decorative’ form of art, simply because, throughout history, it had been associated with domesticity and women. But these trailblazing artists in the 1960s courageously challenged the norms, pushing back against the notion that their art wasn't serious, genuine or even worthy of being considered ‘fine art.’

It was a turning point in art history when the MoMA held the first group exhibition dedicated to contemporary artistic weavers in 1969. This showcased the incredible talent and creativity in the Fiber Arts world, and I found myself drawn to the woven forms of artists like Lenore Tawny, a student of the New Bauhaus.

Using a needle in my own sculptural work.

The resilience of these artists in defying the devaluation of Fiber Arts resonates deeply with me, as it parallels the challenges I sometimes face in the world of mixed media sculpture.

My work delves into the realm of mixed media sculptural art, where I fuse various materials like wood, fiber and paint to create unique and expressive pieces.

I draw inspiration from the world around me, incorporating digital tools in my design process and employing precision tools and machinery to bring my visions to life.

In every piece I create, there's a dialogue between the materials, colors, and techniques, resulting in intricate and vibrant artworks.

A peek at the early stage of a work.

The feminist perspective I embrace celebrates the strength, creativity, and resilience of women artists throughout history. As I experiment with fiber elements in my sculptures, I pay homage to the rich tradition of Fiber Arts and the pioneering women who paved the way. Through my art, I aim to challenge stereotypes and break free from limiting definitions of what art can be.

At its core, my work invites viewers to explore and engage with each piece. It's an invitation to discover the wonder of my sculptures and the stories they tell. As you encounter my art, I hope you, too, experience a sense of discovery akin to that childlike wonder we all once had.

In my work, the materials I use often inspire new ways of creating.

Every fiber in my sculptures represents a thread of thought and a moment of inspiration. Just like the fearless artists before me, I weave my message into every piece, embracing the fiber of art and its limitless possibilities. I believe that art is a powerful tool for change.

So, as I continue on my artistic journey, I invite you to join me in keeping an open mind to how materials come together in a work of art, and how we think about works of art in the world. Let's defy expectations, challenge stereotypes, and embrace the power of art to shape our world.