How do we connect to the practice of making when we are so disconnected from the origins of materials that make up our daily lives? What would it look like to build authentic relationships with our materials, the people who produce them for us, and the world that makes fiber art possible? How can we foster a community that looks out for each other and shares in the beauty of making? In this episode of Material Culture, Rachel and Rachel dive into a conversation around Anni Albers' "On Weaving", and talk about the pressures of building a business coupled with the desire to see a more holistic view to creative practices. We also got the chance to hear from some of you - we asked for community submissions, and you delivered! Topics discussed include: The preciousness of materials like flax and linen, Indigenous practices of allegiance to the Earth, the isolation caused by a culture of consuming, and the limits of relationships over social media.
The Material Culture podcast explores narratives of weaving, (text)iles, art, manufacturing, history, and the people, workers and artists whose stories create the framework and understanding of living with cloth. Material Culture is produced by the yarn shop, textile studio and weaving school, Weaver House. If you have a question, comment or other feedback - you can leave a message for the podcast at weaverhouseco.com/podcast.
This week's episode is also sponsored by Weaver House - find us online at weaverhouseco.com, or on Instagram - @weaverhouseco.
Thanks to Philadelphia-based musician Michael Myers for the use of his song, Weave off the album This is Only Light.
You can find more information on Portland Textile Month at https://www.portlandtextilemonth.com, and be on the lookout for more updates about our collaboration with them next month. You can submit voice memos on this months' question to media@weaverhouseco.com.