ARTIST STATEMENT
“Art is an intimacy that serves no purpose beyond expression” Mary Fisher
Weaving is in my blood and is my primary mode of expression.
Making cloth with depth and dimension has been a consistent thread in my work, be it in tapestry, by creating depth and movement through composition, or in cloth that is anything but flat.
I weave in response to my world, in recognition of what I encounter, and in acknowledgement of what stands out to me. I am especially attracted to sacred spaces. This can be a cathedral, a canyon or stand of trees, a place that makes me feel part of an immensity. What I want to express most often is appreciation, a sense of awe, and connection. Frequently the events of the world insert themselves into my work, whether I want them or not. If others can view my work and take away their own bit of wonder, all the better.
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Nancy McRay holds a Master of Fine Arts degree from the University of Michigan with an emphasis on Fiber Art. She has worked as a studio artist and community arts organizer since 1994. While living in East Lansing McRay served on the East Lansing Arts Commission, The East Lansing Art Festival Board of Directors, the East Lansing Art selection committee and the Greater Lansing Arts Council. She served as on site juror for awards presented at the East Lansing Art Festival.
After moving to Williamsburg, MI, McRay continued her involvement with local arts on the Board of Directors of Art Rapids as the Education Committee Chair She worked with Shanna Robinson to curate a Fiber Show for the Jordan River Arts Council in October of 2018. Robinson and McRay also curated another exhibit for JRAC in October of 2020, called “Elemental” in which invited artists created work in response to our natural environment. Robinson and McRay continue to work together to curate fiber shows, including the inaugural art exhibit at the Common Ground Building in Traverse City.
An award winning Fiber Artist, McRay’s current works are with Tapestry, Rigid Heddle Weaving and compound weave structures. She enjoys branching out to other media including print making and painting.
© Nancy McRay