Art for Artists

I consider myself a fiber artist, but I've only recently started using the title when describing my job to people. It seems a little strange still, but running my own business helps boost my confidence. And yet, the question remains: when was this a hobby and why am I now an artist? I don't think sales defines art, I don't think a finished item defines art (ie: something created for the sole purpose of being admired and not used).

So what does? And who exactly is an artist?

I'm continually adapting my definition of art and being an artist as I explore my own art and that of others. And I find myself in an interesting place, along with many other dyers and spinners: our art is a supply for other artists. We don't create a finished product (well, unless you count all my un-knit handspun hanging as decoration on hooks in my back studio): we create to help others create. But we're no less artists!

Oh the layers. Oh the depth.

With that being said, I'm often in awe of some of the things my customers make, so here I go bragging on them . . .

This is Debra Poth's felt work.

It's just amazing how she's able to catch movement and texture with wool. Her shop is Deebs on Etsy, and she's definitely on my short list for Christmas! I can't wait to see what she does with my little 'ol batts. I'm humbled.

And check out this new fiber artist (well, new to felting anyway!). This is Joyce Deming's felted scarf that she made from one of my BFL/mohair batts:

The original batts:

I really wish I could touch it!! It was only her third attempt at wet felting, and I think she nailed it! She has a site where she sells her necklaces and gorgeous ID tag holders: JD Handmade.

I'm no closer to defining art, artists and where I stand, but if I help inspire women like this, then my work is done!!

I hope everyone had a great Fiber Friday, and check out the link to Wisdom Begins in Wonder's blog to get more fiber-y fill!

Comments

[Dutch Hollow Acres]

What beautiful works of art.

[Wonder Why Gal]

Breathtaking...

I want to reach out and touch everything. The waterfall is my favoite.

I consider myself a Fiber Artist and actually label myself as that now. When I can take the raw fleece and create a batt or a roving or take it to yarn...I am creating. Yes, I don't always take it to the finished goods state but my vision took that raw fleece and gave it life.

I love the felted scarf too. I would have loved to see a photo of the batt it came from.

[Kathryn | Alpacamundo]

We have the same issues with our lables too... my husband is a professional athlete, I'm a consultant and we are both fiber farmers. All of these lables are new to us in the last few years. So sometimes we giggle or feel embarrased when using these words to describe ourselves... kind of like when we first started using husband and wife to describe each other. lol.

I think when you are making that transition, the new lable always feels a little funny. Especially when you think other people may not agree with your definition of the word.

The downstream art from your art is quite beautiful.