Haywood Community College hosts national juried fiber exhibition – Small Expressions

HCC is hosting a national juried fiber exhibition called Small Expressions on behalf of the Handweavers Guild of America (HGA). This exhibition will be available to the public September 21 - November 9, 8am-4pm in, the Mary Cornwell Gallery located in the Sycamore building on HCC’s campus. The groups are excited to host an opening reception on September 28 from 4-6pm in the gallery. 

Small Expressions is an annual juried exhibition showcasing contemporary small-scale fiber works using any textile technique. The exhibit will include 35 original art objects not exceeding 15 inches in any direction, completed within the past two years. The artwork is from artists all over the U.S. It features small but visually compelling pieces that speaks to the intricacy of expression, intimacy of design, thoughtful communication, and visual excitement.

The artists whose works are exhibited skillfully use a variety of textile techniques, incorporating both traditional and nontraditional materials, while paying special attention to the limitations involved in creating small-scale works. Artworks have consisted of diverse fiber techniques such as weaving, interlacing, basket making, bead weaving, embroidery, felting, and mixed media.

The purpose of Small Expressions is to increase awareness for the fiber arts by educating and showing the general public an exhibit of works while providing exhibition opportunities and exposure for artists; and to increase the perceived value of this art form by showing that traditional techniques of handweaving can be applied to any type of media in a modern way.

Allyce Wood, a Juror for the Small Expressions exhibit shares: “This year’s exhibition of Small Expressions 2023 is a showcase of artistic intention, skill, and depth within the world of textiles. A wide variety of techniques and explorations, made by artists near and far, speak to the ever-evolving potential of the medium. The handiwork and expressive nature of each artwork draw the viewer in as an invitation to consider the use of structure, color, detail, and storytelling. It is my hope that this exhibition offers a view into the contemporary artistic use of fiber and its rich language.”

Small Expressions appeals to the general public, who as a result of viewing the show, gains a greater appreciation to what fiber art can represent; art enthusiasts who appreciate sculpture and contemporary art; and individuals with an interest in the sciences and mathematics drawn to this type of artwork due to the repetition of pattern.