Visiting Art Museums

I went up to the Castellani Art Museum at Niagara University today for a talk about the Weaving Women of Ancient Athens. I don't often have the chance to visit art museums, but I do enjoy them when I can.

Knotted Pile Sampler, 2011
For the most part, I enjoy visiting art museums to enjoy both the ambiance as well as gather up ideas. Granted, abstract confuses some people, but I like looking at them, trying to figure out what the creator felt or wanted to express. Part of the enjoyment comes from the fact that weaving, especially the art end of weaving can be something abstract.

Due to the abstract nature of fiber arts, I find people not entirely able to accept them as art. On the other hand, those within the fiber arts community sometimes feel that art is just another word for amateur, and use it as such. A fiber artist can be a derogatory term signifying those who do not wish to put the time, energy and patience into properly finishing a quilt, knitted item, or wall hanging.

Art isn't always pleasant, and it isn't always clean around the edges, especially abstract art. It can be messy, rough, and not entirely understandable, but by conveying either the emotions or the basics of shape, the beauty can be felt and observed.

Besides, art museums can always provide weavers with inspiration for projects. It's interesting to know that some pieces can be put into a history museum as well as an art museum. The artisan crafts are beautiful in their functionality and fit into both worlds. If you have a chance, go visit a local art museum and see what inspiration it brings.



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