Relational Threads (2020)

Relational Threads is a community-based project that was born from an exploration of how we structure intimacy, safety, and communication in our relationships. The loom becomes a framework, for weaving connection as well as the act of making; both are collaborative processes in the context of this work.

I warped two weavings side-by-side on one standing frame loom that I built for the project (thanks to my studio mates for putting up with me pounding in 100+ nails by hand over the course of an afternoon).

Visitors to the gallery removed their shoes when they entered the space, and sat on cushions on the floor among balls of yarn and other weaving materials. I sat opposite or next to them, depending on the number of people, and we wove together, sharing stories and conversation for as long as they chose to stay. If they were unfamiliar with weaving I guided them through the process.

This first iteration of Relational Threads was held in Sure Space Gallery in Minneapolis, MN, for a five hour duration.

Deep gratitude to August Schultz for the documentation and to Genevieve DeLeon for their support.

Yarn was a gift from the fine arts department of the Minneapolis College of Art and Design.