Jackie Abrams:
I look upon my work as a progression of explorations in the
possibilities of contemporary basketry.
I began my journey in 1975, making traditional baskets as
an apprentice to Ben Higgins, an 81-year-old white-ash basketmaker.
In time, having refined my techniques, I began to consider
the aesthetics of basketry, exploring alternative techniques,
materials, and forms. This eventually led to an exploration
of working with heavy acrylic-painted cotton paper, resulting
in a body of work of nontraditional forms of texture and color
that are woven, stitched, layered, or constructed.
My current enthusiasm focuses on the possibilities of creating
sculptural forms. The Women Forms are woven vessels that reflect
the women I have encountered who have had an impact on my
life. They speak of connections and relationships, the changing
roles of women, their shared stories, and the ways in which
they live and learn in their worlds.
A new series, Spirit Women, incorporates new techniques and
new materials; they are wrapped figures that are infused with
energy.
Both of these explorations have been greatly influenced by
my teaching and travel in Africa and Australia, where at times
I am stirred simply by a region’s sunburned colors.
Other times it is the cultures, the women, the fabrics, the
landscapes, the stones, the earth that move me.
My journey continues. I remain captivated by what seems to
be the boundless possibilities of contemporary textiles and
basketry.
Each year, the Katie Gingrass Gallery takes Jackie's work
to SOFA
Chicago.
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| A Woman of
Many Cultures |
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| Talking Sisters |
Talking Sisters - Detail |
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| Spirit of the Earth |
Spirit of the Earth -
Detail |
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| Imogene |
Imogene - Detail |
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| A Box for Good Intentions |
A Box for Good Intentions
- Detail |
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| The Kalahari Sisters |
Ama Mary |
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| The Woman She Will Become
- Yellow |
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