ARTIST STATEMENT
Spinning spells, weaving wonder, and creating mixed media artwork through ancient textile techniques are the methods of magic I incorporate into my work as a stitch witch and fiber artist. My passion is channeling the wisdom of the ancestors into contemporary creations, with a focus on re-envisioning the value and visibility of what has been viewed traditionally as women’s work, or craft.
My desire to assist in healing the climate of our Mother Earth has led me to focus much of my work on the creative reuse and salvaging of materials. You will often find me spinning paper advertisements and plastic bags into the “fiber” of my creations, and foraging my yard and the gardens of friends for sustainable plants for weaving and dyeing.
Throughout my 30+ year career as an artist and arts educator, I have woven community together and provided creative inspiration for children and adults of all ages and abilities. With a desire to support my own health, I utilize the somatic movements and contemplative practice of spinning yarn and weaving tapestries to connect mind, body, and spirit.
ABOUT THE ARTIST
After obtaining her B.A. in Interior Design and A.A.S. in Architectural Technology and an early career designing the interior spaces for corporate offices in Chicago high rise buildings, Pamela Penney turned her career path back toward her passion for fiber and textiles. For over 30 years Pam has had a studio practice that explores a variety of mixed media techniques. She is currently focused on spinning art yarn, tapestry weaving and basketry and utilizes primarily sustainable, salvaged and foraged materials in her 2D and 3D work. Pamela currently works from her studio in Oak Park Illinois where she has served on the board of directors for the Oak Park Art League and was a past board member of the Oak Park Arts District and Visit Oak Park. Pam is a member of the American Tapestry Alliance, Woman Made Gallery, Surface Design Assoc., Creative Placemakers, North Suburban Needlearts Guild, Weavers Guild North Shore.
© Pamela Penney