Through a deep exploration of textile colouring techniques, above all Shibori, Barbara Berther has developed a new language to create surfaces and compositions that transform textile materials into sculptural designs. This solo exhibition “Ayre” is Barbara’s second time exhibiting at Fiberspace. The first time was in the group show Itajime Interpreted.

As an artistic practitioner, Barbara sees that there is a strength in exceeding the traditional limits in textiles. Not as an intrinsic value, but as a way of expanding experimentation with material and expression. In the 1970s and 80s she began working in a direction in textiles that used textile as a sculptural medium.

Many years ago Barbara wrote a text that is still relevant to her:

“In all creation, the idea is the starting point which requires cross-boundary transparency, but at the same time seeks a full interpretation. As an artist, this is my pursuit.”

Welcome to the finissage and artist talk on Saturday 2/12 at 14:30. Limited space so secure your spot here.

OCCUPATION?
Fiber artist

WHAT DOES FIBER MEAN TO YOU?
At birth, enveloped in the first non-­flesh experience, if not all but most of us have been sensitised by some form of fiber wrap. An ultimate material for me to comprehensively express my creative and artistic attitudes, a material that never fails to generate an indescribable warmth for me!

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE FIBER OR TEXTILE TECHNIQUE?
My preferred fiber, mixed fibers. Ever since my student days at Konstfack my fiber narrative has been 3D. Having accumulated fundamental knowledge of textiles, weaving, printing and sculpturing fibers I have ultimately found salvation in shibori, thousands of years old Japanese dyeing technique and applications, my fundamental fascination of its brilliance, not to allow its enforcer to have the ultimate command over its fluid characteristics.

WHAT IS YOUR MOST VIVID TEXTILE MEMORY?
To create and materialise the biggest tapestry in Switzerland in 1977, it was not only a pivotal but a distinctive land mark in my textile memories, to force a break away from the traditional HAND TUFTING techniques and to test its boundaries was an ultimate creative satisfaction. A memory to be cherished for rest of my life. A 3D and 40 square meters tapestry for a large conference room at Swiss Television Headquarters in Zurich.