Fiber Friday

Felted art, ranging from Christmas ornaments and mittens to rugs, historically has been the provenance of artisans in central Europe and central Asia. Among the more well known objects in this genre are wool felt Shyrdak rugs from Kyrgyztan. That ancient tradition is turned on its head in “Reliquary,” the work of Chicago-based artist William J. O'Brien currently on exhibit at the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art.

 What look at first glance like large paintings or prints, turn out to be felted creations on closer examination. Red and black or blue and black felt motifs are stitched onto white grounds in an exuberant style reminiscent of outsider artists. One of the main objects is a tent big enough to walk through that is riotously painted in grays and black. Standing guard at the entrance are a pair of ceramic figures whose “crawling” glaze mimics beadwork.  “Reliquary” is installed throughout the first floor of MMoCA and will be on display until Nov. 11.

Both images: MMoCA

Comments

[Lisa at Greenbow]

Looks like it would be a pleasant exhibit to see especially since it is fall.

[Kris P]

Wow!

[Peter/Outlaw]

Another fabulous show that almost makes me wish I lived in your area. Your winter posts will cure that quickly.

[Barbara H.]

Oh my gosh, I can't even begin to imagine how much work that all entailed. And how to keep on track while creating it.