Date of Award
2019
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
M.F.A. in Art
Department
Art and Art History
First Advisor
Durant Thompson
Second Advisor
Virginia Rougon Chavis
Third Advisor
Brooke White
Relational Format
dissertation/thesis
Abstract
Up until about the 1960’s, sculpture was dominated by work made with metal, wood, or stone. These materials would be described as “hard” or “masculine,” while materials such as fabric or yarn are described as “soft” or “feminine.” Fabric is known for its softness and malleability and is commonly used to cover the human body for objects such as clothing or bedding. The materials that I have selected are generally considered soft, yet protective, but are also thought of as insubstantial and fragile. As a child, I would see quilts and hear stories about how my maternal grandmother and great-grandmother sewed. Although they were unable to teach me the process of sewing, I have found a great appreciation for it over the past two years through the manipulation of textiles to make abstract sculptures. My work has always drifted towards materials and imagery that are feminine, while maintaining an interest in increased scale and the alteration of space. Connecting Thread creates a connection between textile-based sculptures and comforting memories provoked from the viewer. In this work, textiles are used to generate a connection between these two things and by linking these ideas, the work can be associated with mundane, domestic objects while also creating a deeper personal connection between myself, the viewer, and the work.
Recommended Citation
Parker, Christen, "Connecting Thread" (2019). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. 1654.
https://egrove.olemiss.edu/etd/1654