Danielle Bodine

Danielle Bodine has worked in textiles for over 35 years. Her work has been exhibited in museums, galleries and art centers throughout the U.S. and is included in many private and corporate collections. Originally from Seattle, she studied clothing design at the University of Washington, Art Therapy at Bowling Green University and received a BFA from the University of Michigan in Weaving and Textile Design. Her work has appeared in numerous publications, most recently in “All Things Considered IV” NBO Juried Show and catalog at Fuller Craft Museum, 500 Baskets, Lark Books and Pulp Function, Fuller Craft Museum. Nationally she has been an invited artist, teacher, and lecturer in museums, colleges and arts organizations. In her studio on Whidbey Island, which has been featured in major publications, she offers opportunities for artists and members of the community to explore the many applications of fiber for creative expression. She is currently represented by  Museo Gallery and Robert Kidd Gallery.

Statement:

Weaving, quilting, needle arts, silk screening, and basketry are areas of fiber I’ve explored over the years.  My current work is a culmination of reflections and experiences with techniques and concepts. When I first experimented with fiber, I worked in a two dimensional format. I found that I wanted to manipulate the flat surfaces into 3- dimensional forms.  The discovery of basketry techniques enabled me to construct forms without constrictions of size or shape.

My experimentation with paper began ten years ago after discovering a variety of exquisite Kozo papers in a shop in Japan. I was intrigued by the transparency and strength of the papers. Returning home, I began to use them for printmaking and then to apply the printed papers to the surfaces of my basket forms.

I had previously cast handmade paper, but found the forms weren’t flexible enough to manipulate.  I experimented with layering mulberry papers using an acrylic adhesive to a basket form or other object, then removing it and manipulating it into the forms I desired.  Coming from a textile background, I enjoy that paper has a memory and retains the textures from the objects it is cast on.  It also has the freedom and flexibility to be painted, dyed, and altered, giving the illusion of weight, of being made of metal or clay.

I love to travel internationally and to visit Ethnological Museums. My work often reflects these experiences with other cultures. As for my philosophy -the process of creating is centering and exciting. It is important to me in my own work and when I teach, to encourage experimentation – new techniques, forms, materials, and content. More at the Danielle Bodine website.

Contact: dbodine@whidbey.com

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