Welcome to the Underground! Fall is approaching, and I couldn't be more excited. It's a sweltering 103 degrees with a drenching 85 percent humidity. This intense weather has me reflecting on the significance of fibers and textiles in our lives. The materials we use truly shape our understanding of the world around us. That's why I'm thrilled to dive into the captivating history of fiber art. And to make things even more unique, I'm delighted to introduce my talented friend Kathy Pflaum, a remarkable fiber artist. Her tapestry is simply breathtaking, resembling an abstract painting. The fact that it's intricately sewn adds an extra layer of awe. Check out Kathy's fantastic work in the feature artist section. Get ready to be blown away!

Tapestry to History

Discover the extraordinary world of Fiber art - a captivating journey through ancient civilizations and cultural significance.

Fabric and fiber hold more than just functionality - they are symbols of tradition, rituals, and society's milestones. From the magnificent tapestries of Egypt to the intricate embroidery of China. As well as and the vibrant fabrics of Africa and Italy, the richness of textile art is undeniable.

During the  Renaissance, great masters like Michelangelo and Raphael breathed life into their paintings and sculptures by incorporating textiles. This added texture and depth to their masterpieces

Artist: Kathy Pflaum

Take a moment to explore the inspirational works of Gunta Stölzl and Sheila Hicks, whose groundbreaking approach blurred the lines between craft and fine art.

Now, let's celebrate the modern pioneers who have elevated fiber art to new heights. Magdalena Abakanowicz is known for her breathtaking fiber sculptures, Kiki Smith, whose contemporary art with hand stitching astonishes. El Anatsu transforms everyday materials like bottle tops into astonishing fiber art.

However, the evolution of fabric art continued further. The 20th century witnessed a remarkable shift as avant-garde movements emerged. Artists embraced experimentation, pushing the boundaries of traditional textile art.

Image: Gunta Stolzl

Magdalena Abakanowicz

Local Art Scene

Get ready for school and the season of giving! Topeka is bursting with options to support local artists and find the perfect gift. As a proud Visual Artist of Topeka member, I'm thrilled to announce the Flora and Fauna show featuring some of the city's finest artists. Held at The Coffee Bar, this event offers refreshing drinks and a taste of the vibrant Topeka Art Scene.

Mark your calendars!  Opening night is on Topeka's First Friday in September (September 1). Make sure to stop by and enjoy this must-see show. Can't make it? No worries - the exhibit will be running for the entire month of September. Don't miss out!  Click for more information

Take a break from the ordinary and unleash your creativity! ArtsConnects is here to offer free art classes specifically for veterans, first responders, and anyone coping with the effects of trauma. Led by the talented John Sebelius, these classes are a chance to express yourself through art. Join us every 2nd and 3rd Thursday from 6 to 7 pm.

Take advantage of this incredible opportunity to find healing and inspiration through art. Come as you are, and let your artistic journey begin!

PLUMM FIBERS DESIGN

Fibers, Fabrics, Paper to found objects to metals where two dimensional design meets the convention of three dimensional form.

Get ready to be blown away by the incredible talent of local artist Kathy Pflaum! Her stunning fiber mixed media artwork will completely change your perspective on what art can be.

Starting as a traditional quilting artist, Kathy has since exclusively evolved her craft to focus on fiber art. Using folded and hand-dyed fabrics, along with print-making techniques and metal, she creates mind-blowing mixed media pieces.

But Kathy's creativity doesn't stop there. She experiments with silk roving, silk fibers, wool, alpaca, and other non-fabric fibers to add depth and other non-fabric fibers to add depth and dimension to her work. It allows her to create both breathtaking two-dimensional and jaw-dropping three-dimensional pieces. Read entire article.