Contemporary Weaving in Mixed Media by Rachna Garodia
‘Weaving? But I am not a weaver.’ That was my personal response. However now having contacted the artist themselves directly, discussed this project with them and having explored this multifaceted publication, I have changed my mind. Why? Let me give you a few highlights of this whimsical and aesthetically engaging journey through this ancient yet modern craft….very soon you too will be simply asking….what could I….?
What is so capturing about this genre of craft? In our modern age, we need art to be approachable and often woven quite literally to be excused as simply a part of our lives. Not all of us have time to create for creating sake - sadly the Austen era is no longer our own. However all is not lost - from small sampling to large works for interior settings, Garodia shows how this art type can become a part of your home, not only housed on an art gallery wall.
Weaving can sound like a traditional form of textile art. The inclusion of mixed-media in the tile though, did spark my interest. This is no staid view of an ancient craft. Garodia weaves (excuse the use of the word AGAIN) in and out of contemporary ideas and inspiration showing how this technique can be incorporated into many art styles. Structurally, this book is made of an introduction section, along with six key chapter areas. There is also plenty guidance on the weaving methods themselves. The artist has laid out the work of other artists as well as her own, which makes for a well rounded view of the subject area. There are quotes dappled throughout the book, from a number of well known personalities which connect thematically with the overall artistic premise behind this publication.
Sketchbook illustrations are particularly exciting, showing how small plans make for final pieces. They are also realistic, an artist who works in the weaving field may not necessarily be good at drawing. The sketches are inspiring, yet not always shown as works of art which we would frame.
I personally loved the artists inclusion of natural forms. Think wild flowers, which have been dried or even pressed in a traditional flower press, all used as a part of a project. What can we gather on a walk? Let our own steps outside grant us the privilege of gathering and bringing home our treasures. Sit them on our own tables in conjunction with this book - what will we create?
A key highlight I unearthed? The chapter titled ‘A walk down memory lane’. The prelude to this chapter where the artist talks about her personal wonderment surrounding the human memory capacity and how its transforms these is so interesting. What objects do we cherish? Imagine using old tickets and even stamps in a woven piece? Let Rachna and your own memory boxes guide you to create your own example.
Garodia evidences through direct conversational discussion through the text of this book, along with the visual that this method can be meditative, therapeutic, reflective - not making for makings sake. The consistency of the movements associated practically to create woven works, the gentle processes, the ups, the downs, the joys.
From feathers and seedpods, traditional yarns to old photographs, what will your artistry vocalise? This is truly a gorgeous and well illustrated tome for any of us with craft on our mind. In the conclusion, Rachna divulges that creativity has many a form, she reveals that the giving birth to new creative life in a woven form is perhaps ‘the most joyous part of the act for me’.
Contemporary Weaving in Mixed Media by Rachna Garodia, published by Batsford is available right now.