Terry Olson from the Damascus Fiber Arts School said of her visit, “We were totally impressed by the tapestry exhibit. We thought the large tapestries in the lobby were awesome and were pleased, but when we realized that wasn't even the exhibit we came to see, that was even better. The way you curated and hung the main exhibit was most excellent. It was one of the best tapestry shows I have ever seen.” More than 40 small tapestry pieces are on display, showcasing the incredible talents of tapestry weavers from Tapestry Weavers South and Tapestry Artists of Puget Sound (TAPS).
The small tapestry format is conducive to experimentation for the contemporary weaver. Small tapestries tend to be of finer quality than large ones, and are more time consuming to weave. Smaller tapestries also provide the opportunity to appreciate the workmanship close-up while larger tapestries are observed from a farther distance in order to see the whole design. Smaller works also feel more intimate to the viewer.
The two tapestry groups joined forces to develop this collaborative project. The goal was to present a wide variety of work while restricting tapestry artists to the same format. The exhibit first opened at the Gaston County Museum of Art and History in Dallas, North Carolina on Feb.18, 2012.
In addition to the tapestries, museum visitors can watch videos showing the complex process involved and the skills needed by the weavers to create their woven works of art. Hands-on activities will provide an opportunity for exhibit visitors to try their hand at tapestry weaving.
In addition to the small tapestries in the Special Exhibitions Gallery, local weavers from TAPS will display larger tapestries in the museum lobby. The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday 10 am to 5 pm. Visit www.harborhistorymuseum.org for more information on this new exhibit and other exhibits in the museum.
The Gig Harbor Peninsula Historical Society, dba Harbor History Museum, was founded in 1963, and opened a museum in 1973. Our mission is to create opportunities to experience the heritage of the greater Gig Harbor communities. We do this by collecting, preserving, and sharing this area’s history. The museum is open April 16-January 31, Tues-Sun, 10am-5pm, except major holidays; winter hours are February 1-April 15, Wed.-Sat. 10am-4pm, Sundays 12pm-4pm.
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