New Fibers 2006

The Fiber Arts Network of Michigan (FAN) was founded on belief in the handmade, one of a kind object and is dedicated to promoting its value in contemporary life and art. Recent national and regional exhibitions testify to the increasing recognition of fiber art as a fine art medium and are stimulating a greater public awareness of its significance. Locally there are limited opportunities for fiber artists to exhibit their work and the public to see contemporary fiber art. The New Fibers series of exhibitions showcase current fiber art. New Fibers 2006 presents 51 works by regional artists. It offers a broad range of forms, from textiles rooted in traditional processes and materials to sculptural and mixed media art. Selected by Cynthia Schira from a field of 224 entries, the work is innovative in both conception and execution. Each artist has transformed materials, often drawn from familiar, domestic source, into highly original objects intimately expressive of the artist’s life and environment. FAN, a non-profit organization established in May 2003, welcomes artist, collectors, guilds, gallery owners, suppliers, and all who share an interest in fiber art. A quarterly newsletter informs the membership of speakers, workshops and exhibitions related to fiber art. An annual meeting, featuring a presentation by a nationally known fiber artist, brings the membership together to exchange ideas and information.