The textile industry put Greensboro on the map. In fact, one of its most productive mills, Cone Mills, was a world leader in the manufacturing of corduroy, flannel, denim, and other cotton fabrics for most of the 20th century. In homage to this legacy, the museum will showcase works of art by artists who either incorporate fabric as an artmaking tool or suggest its physical characteristics.
While fabric has had a long history in the field of craft, it was only embraced by the broader art community during the latter half of the twentieth century. Anni Albers’s textiles bridged these two worlds; her Study for Six Prayers II, back from recent loan to the Tate Modern in London, illustrates her integration of abstract design and modern materials with innovative weaving techniques. More contemporary artists, such as Dona Nelson and the Young brothers, have used remnants of cloth as the crux of their artworks. In contrast, Linda Besemer, Annie Lopez, and Virginia Budny simulate the look of fabric using materials such as acrylic paint, paper, and porcelain.
This exhibition is organized by Elaine D. Gustafson, Curator of Collections.
RELATED PROGRAM:
Noon @ the ‘Spoon Public Tour • Tuesday, Jul 9 @ 12-12:20pm
