JUROR: Rena Wood

Fiber artist Rena Wood received her BFA in Fibers from the Kansas City Art Institute and MFA from the Department of Craft/ Material Studies at Virginia Commonwealth University. She is an Assistant Professor of Fiber Art at Tennessee Tech University’s Appalachian Center for Craft. As a Fiber Arts educator, she has taught workshops on embroidery and fiber processes at art centers and craft schools throughout the country. Previously, she was a Visiting Instructor at Bloomsburg University in Pennsylvania and a Visiting Assistant Professor at Skidmore College in Saratoga Springs, NY. Rena has been an Artist in Residence at the Houston Center for Contemporary Craft in Houston, TX, Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts in Gatlinburg, TN, and at the Craft Alliance in St. Louis, MO. Her work has been shown nationally in solo and group exhibitions, most recently at the Leedy Voulkos Art Center in Kansas City, MO. Rena is a recipient of the Tennessee Arts Commission’s Individual Artist Fellowship in Craft for 2023.

I would like to express my sincere thanks to all the talented artists who submitted their work for Fantastic Fibers. The response was overwhelming, with over 500 entries from all around the world. Selecting the works for the exhibit was a challenging task, but it was a privilege to be able to view such a wide range of incredible talent and creativity.

The works chosen for the exhibition demonstrate the diverse and dynamic nature of Fiber Art, created by artists from Paducah to Sweden to Taiwan. The exhibit features an array of traditional techniques, innovative processes, and experimental materials, all masterfully crafted by artists who bring unique perspectives and vision to their work.

In selecting the works for the exhibit, I aimed to display a variety of styles, fiber techniques, and themes, with an emphasis on exceptional skill and meaningful concepts. Each artwork is a unique example of contemporary Fiber Art, showcasing the artists’ dedication to this craft. From intricate embroideries to bold quilts and sculptural forms, every piece tells a compelling story, capturing the essence of the artist’s vision and creativity. Themes of the work ranged from personal reflections to political statements, the beauty of nature to environmental concerns, as well as life during a pandemic to struggles for equality.

The exhibition is a testament to the enduring importance of fiber art. It is a celebration of artistic expression and innovation, and it highlights the infinite possibilities of working with fiber. I am honored to have been part of the selection process and look forward to seeing how these talented artists continue to push the boundaries of the medium.

I encourage visitors to take the time to appreciate the works on display, to explore the various styles and approaches, and to gain a deeper appreciation of the beauty and complexity of Fiber Art.