Sip & Chat: Unraveling Fiber Art: From Craft to Contemporary Fine Art – Tradition, Innovation, and Activism

Unraveling Fiber Art: From Craft to Contemporary Fine Art – Tradition, Innovation, and Activism

Join us for an inspiring Sip & Chat panel discussion as we explore the rich evolution of fiber art—from its traditional craft roots to its expanding presence in contemporary fine art. This engaging conversation brings together artists, educators, and curators who are reshaping the narrative of fiber and textile art today.

Guest Speakers:

• Janet Kawada – MassArt faculty, fiber artist, and exhibition chair at the St. Botolph Club (currently with work on view at TAG)
• Jeffrey Nowlin – artist, educator, and researcher and curator at the Piano Craft Gallery
• Rachel Oswald – Studio Manager for Art Education and Fiber Artist at MassArt
• Kristina Goransson – Fiber artist, educator, and curator (currently exhibiting a solo show at Boston Sculptors Gallery)
• Mia Rodriguez – Fiber artist and Studio Monitor at the Print Shop, School of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston ( currently with work on view at TAG)

This event is part of the Gather Symposium, a month-long celebration of fiber art across Greater Boston featuring exhibitions, workshops, lectures, and more, highlighting the dynamic, multidisciplinary possibilities of fiber and textile-based practices.

The discussion will center on guests artists practices, and the legacy and future of fiber art, touching on:

• The influence of feminist movements
• The role of museums in elevating textile-based works
• Innovative materials and experimental techniques
• Fiber art’s connection to sustainability, activism, and education

Currently on view at TAG Gallery through April 27:

• Interwoven Narratives – A juried open call exhibition curated by Kate Irvin, featuring works by 41 fiber artists
• Gathering at TAG – Honoring Marilyn Pappas, founder of the Fiber Art Department at MassArt, featuring works by 12 current and former MassArt faculty members

Moderator:

Claudia Fiks, arts administrator, independent curator, art consultant, director at Newton Open Studios, Director and founder at New England Art Center

RSVP HERE