WISC Artist-in-Residence Samantha Manion-Chavez
Samantha Manion-Chavez’s practice reanimates the Latin folk art of Colcha Embroidery that was invented in the rural Española Valley of New Mexico more than four hundred years ago. Manion-Chavez removes this historic medium and other feminine crafts from the safety of the home and places them into chaotic, organic landscapes. Exposed to the elements of rain, wind, and sun the handmade textiles become an active collaboration between artist and nature. As the fiber object occupies open space of the Natural World it is subject to the will of the elements and chance highlighting the vulnerability of Man. These experimental works activated by the forces of nature seek to explore the tension between Man and the Wild, the greatest archetype we’ve ever known.
