Design Exhibition “Witches Ladder: Interwoven”

There are times when I don’t feel like I belong as a weaver in the art world. My craft is somewhat unique, and it’s rare to find others doing what I do, so I lack a local community of fellow weavers. However, I’ve built an online community of weaver and fiber art friends over the years, thanks to social media. In this online space, we’ve supported and championed each other, watching one another grow as artists and craftspeople. Together, we’ve found our voices in the craft and art world.

We’ve also made it a point to meet in person whenever possible—on trips, at shows, or during residencies. Those are the moments when I truly feel like I belong, surrounded by people who share my passion. We can talk shop, bounce ideas off each other, and dive into discussions about yarn, sheep breeds, looms, and whatever fiber we’re currently working with or eager to try.

When I tell people that I’m a sculptural weaver, they often don’t know what I mean. Many have never met a weaver or seen a loom before—it’s seen as old-fashioned and hard to imagine. But then there are moments when someone I know returns from a place like Mexico, where they visited a weaving town where the locals spin and dye their own yarn and create beautiful textiles. That experience resonates with them, and it makes them think of me, which is something I find so lovely and I deeply appreciate.

*A “Witches Ladder” is a practice, in Folk Magic or Witchcraft, that is made from knotted cord or hair, that normally constitutes a spell. I feel like the magic that I put out into the world is through weaving. When I am sitting and working at the loom I like to think that I am weaving calm and good intentions into my pieces.

About the Host

Rachel Ehlin-Smith