Laura Berman
Fiber Art

www.lauragberman.com

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I'm intrigued by the wondrous natural properties of wool and its ability to trap heat for warmth even when wet. This past 7 years I've concentrated on wet felting wool by hand for both wearables and whimsical sculptured vessel. The vessels are a recent and exciting direction and, they've enabled me to explore and develop a wide range of self-taught techniques in 3-D sculptural work. Unexpectedly, each sculpture "speaks" to me and ends up with a quirky or unique persona when finished. So...each gets a name to continue its communication with others.
My scarves are Nuno-felted---wool that is felted into a fabric base. This technique enables me to create felted work with drape, warmth, texture, and some sheerness. I've always preferred working with fine textiles and I primarily use Australian merino wool and silk chiffon. My goal is to produce fine fiber craftsmanship that is rich in color, completely reversible, and with bold visual presence as an accessory for fun and warmth.
I find my style reflects an interest in textures, graphic design, and vibrant color combinations that can brighten up our lives in the gray winters of the Northwest--or wherever one lives and travels.
I've just finished building an art studio for fiber work and look forward to hosting visitors at Philomath Open Studios.