Today we’d like to introduce you to Ginny Bivens.
Ginny, please kick things off for us by telling us about yourself and your journey so far.
I’ve always liked to dabble. I liked making things even if it was just a mess- What’s that saying? Happiness is a warm glue gun? When I was a kid, my grandmother taught me cross stitching and embroidery which was my first introduction into any kind of fiber craft. In my early twenties, I’d hand-sew little felt plush woodland creatures with button eyes and make weird jewelry from dollhouse miniatures. There were always a handful of random projects in the works scattered about my room. When it comes to working with yarn, one of my college roommates taught me to crochet and I was instantly hooked. It was so cathartic and I felt like I found something that had been missing. I started making scarves then worked my way up to blankets. That’s how the yarn addiction began.
Can you give our readers some background on your art?
I’m a fiber artist. I make woven wall hangings full of color and texture that range in size and shape from a tiny weaving that fits in the palm of your hand to a large statement piece. I use wool and cotton yarn, vintage lace, rope, macrame cord, wool roving, strips of leather and fabric, recycled materials- anything that catches my eye. That’s what I love about this medium. I’m always learning new techniques, experimenting with different fibers, color combinations, shapes and patterns. When it comes to starting a new project, I don’t ever begin with one specific “vision” for an end-product. Things just kind of evolve as I work, and that’s part of the appeal of weaving. I love doing commission pieces and collaborating with people to create something that is unique to them and their space.
Aside from weaving and crocheting, I have been working with natural dyes using flowers & plants, wood, minerals and other biological materials. The range of shades derived from items like marigolds, walnut hulls, cochineal, Osage orange sawdust, black beans and madder root is astounding. The process is fascinating and I love incorporating naturally dyed materials into my woven pieces.
What I love most is that these two specific art forms, textile weaving and natural dyeing, have been around for thousands of years. I’m so happy to be a part of this modern movement of slow craft. It’s challenging, teaches me to be more mindful and have patience. It’s amazing therapy.
Do you think conditions are generally improving for artists? What more can cities and communities do to improve conditions for artists?
I think Houston is great place to be if you’re an artist or maker right now. This is a very supportive, diverse, inspiring and growing community. I think people are really recognizing the full worth of handmade, unique pieces as well as the time, energy, effort and craftsmanship that is involved. I love being able to go to a local market, hold a piece of art in my hands, meet the maker, have a conversation and connect. That’s how Houston can continue to support and encourage. Attend local events and pop-ups, buy one-of-a-kind items and meet the artists. Make that human connection.
What’s the best way for someone to check out your work and provide support?
I post photos of completed projects and works-in-progress on my Instagram and Facebook accounts and I do pop ups and trunk shows periodically. I’ll always give folks a heads up if I’m participating in an event. If you’d like a custom piece or see something on my Instagram that you’d like me to recreate, feel free to send a message!
Contact Info:
- Email: Dwellerfiberart@gmail.com
- Instagram: @Dwellerfiberart
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dwellerfiberart/
Image Credit:
Ben Quasius
Getting in touch: VoyageHouston is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
