*This was originally a “Save the Date” post that’s now been updated with more information about the exhibit!*
Things have been crazy busy here for me as I prepared for Peacework, my first solo fiber art exhibit at a local gallery. Since probably 99.9% of my lovely readers are not local to the Southern Tier of New York state, you’re not likely able to visit the gallery. Therefore, I bring the exhibit to you, virtually!
The following images are signage from the exhibit, photos of the pieces and the title and copy that accompanies each piece.
Artist’s Statement:
Love is Love
Knit and crocheted acrylic yarn over an inflated structure, 5′ tall.
This piece was created for Elmira Pride Fest, 2025, celebrating LGBTQ people and their supporters, fostering community and visibility.
It was knitted using a hand-operated circular knitting machine to create a tube over 13’ long. After this exhibit closes, this project will be transformed into warm, handcrafted hats for those in need.
Climate Change
Knit and embroidered acrylic yarn over a second hand globe.
The design and color palette for this piece was inspired by changes in surface air temperature over the past 50 years. Climate change has an increasingly large impact on our environment including heat waves, wildfires, intense storms, sea level rise and more. It’s imperative to spread awareness and support efforts to minimize future warming.
Speak Truth to Power
Knit, crocheted and embroidered acrylic yarn over megaphone.
The First Amendment states, “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances”.
This piece focuses on protecting the right of individuals to express their thoughts and raise their voices without government censorship.
14.1
Knit and crocheted acrylic yarn over a second hand scale.
The 14th Amendment of the United States Constitution, Section 1 states that:
• Citizenship is granted to anyone born in the U.S.
• States are prohibited from passing laws that violate due process or deny equal protection of the laws to anyone.
• States are forbidden from abridging the privileges or immunities of any citizen.
As recent executive actions and court rulings threaten citizenship, due process, discrimination and voting rights, we must remain vigilant in the protection of equal justice under law.
People First
Knit and crocheted acrylic yarn over a second hand wheelchair.
With the threat of diminishing social safety nets, it’s important to protect public health and care for vulnerable populations. We are stronger together when we support all members of our community, especially those with health and accessibility challenges.
The bold colors and mixed patterns in this piece convey a sense of joy, diversity and visibility.
During a Pride event as well as during the gallery exhibit reception, members of the community were able to participate by turning the crank on a manual circular knitting machine. The knitted “tube” , as well as the knitting from the rainbow, will be made into hats for charity.
That’s it! I hope you enjoy getting to see the Peacework collection in its entirety. It was a lot of work but it was a labor of love. I’ve never had an arts grant before and it’s been a great experience so far! And by the way, the exhibit has been extended into November and December of 2025 so if you are local you can still check it out!