Lisa Klakulak
Felted Compositions: Sampling 2-D Techniques
June 15-21

Course Description:
Participants will obtain an understanding of the processing of wool fleece, the variety of forms it may be purchased in and the chemical and mechanical processes of felting. A plethora of two-dimensional felting techniques structured around the elements of color, line, shape and texture will be explored. Methods to create dynamic surface composition will include: color theory and blending, partial felt appliqué and reverse appliqué for defined patterning or realistic imagery, fusing additional fibers, yarns and fabric in felt for surface texture and dimension, and detailing through embellishments with free motion machine stitching, hand stitching, needle felting and beading. The focus of this class is experimentation with techniques on small samples to create a developmental series and/or to explore options for larger more involved projects.

Biography:
Lisa Klakulak creates wearable textiles, accessories and sculpture in her Asheville, NC studio, which have been shown at Penland, Blue Spiral and TAG art galleries and awarded at national fiber and fine craft exhibitions and at fine craft fairs throughout the southeast. Klakulak has instructed adult workshops on felting, embellishment techniques and the use of natural dyes at Penland School of Craft, The Society of Contemporary Craft, The Appalachian Center for Craft, The Oregon School of Arts and Crafts, and The Ogden Museum of Southern Art. Klakulak received a BFA in Fiber Arts in 1997 from Colorado State University and was an Artist in Residence at the Appalachian Center for Craft from 2002-2005. Images of her work have recently been published in Felted Jewelry and Fabulous Felted Scarves and Neck Wraps, Lark Books, 2007, and in How We Felt, Interweave Press, 2007.

Artist's Statement:
I am inspired by humanity’s age-old relationship with the community and time involved fiber processes; through which I convey contemporary issues from within a society preoccupied with individuality, speed and disposability. My insights of this current psychological and physical condition are expressed by the materials used, the methods employed, and the concepts referenced.

Previous to the industrial revolution the making of fabric necessitated a tightly knit community to accomplish the shearing of animals, washing of fleece, and felting of wool as well as the detailed spinning of yarns, threading of the loom and weaving. Additionally, having forever obtained color through the alchemy of dyeing fiber with gathered and cultivated natural materials; humans experienced a disconnection from their natural environment with the discovery of synthetic dyes in 1856. My primary use of fiber and natural dyes represents a fight for the threatened values of community responsibility, patience, physical activity, and an intimate relationship with our natural world.

I color, weave, felt, stitch and bead fiber; manifesting body textiles, accessories, and pieces solely of aesthetic and contemplative function. Recent concepts conveyed in the work reference issues related to human vulnerability, the resulting need for physical security and mental defense and the unfortunate isolation that often results. I work primarily with protein fibers from silk cocoons and animal fleece as well as natural materials and human-made products that offer a sense of comfort and security through qualities of insulation, durability, convenience and control.

Supply list for participants to bring from home:


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