Small Expression: An annual exhibit from the Handweavers Guild of America
Visual and Performing Arts
The Beaumier U.P. Heritage Center, in association with the Yarnwinders Fiber Guild of Marquette, are presenting a touring exhibition from the Handweavers Guild of America, Small Expressions. This exhibition will feature up to 40 pieces from handweavers artists across the United States. It will be on display from May 8 – June 27 at the Beaumier Center’s gallery in 223 Harden Hall on the campus of Northern Michigan University. Admission is free and open to the public. The Center’s summer hours are 12 p.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday.
An annual juried exhibition showcasing contemporary small-scale works using fiber techniques in any media. Small in scale but visually compelling, the Handweavers Guild of America, Inc.’s (HGA) Small Expressions exhibit features work that speaks to the intricacy of expression, the intimacy of design, thoughtful communication, and visual excitement. The artists in this exhibit create a big impact through small pieces. Works juried into Small Expressions do not exceed 15 inches (38 centimeters) in any direction and are of exhibition quality, completed within the last two years, and not previously published. 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 Yarwinders Fiber Guild of Marquette are a loosely woven group of handweavers who meet monthly to promote the art of handweaving and related fiber arts. They have participated in the Midsummer Festival, Upper Peninsula Folklife festival, Finn Fun Fest, the Iron History Museum fall harvest days festival, Alpaca Days in Skandia. Its members participate in regional art festivals and have their items for sale in many area galleries and shops.
