Expert tapestry weaver teaches techniques at SDAM workshop

17 Sep '08

2 min read

The South Dakota Art Museum will hold a two-day workshop on the historic art of tapestry weaving Sept. 27 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sept. 28 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Expert weaver Grete Bodøgaard, born in Bodø, Norway, and now a resident of Volin, will teach the class.

Bodøgaard will show participants how to apply basic tapestry weaving techniques using a variety of new and interesting fibers, such as corn, soy, stainless steel, glow in the dark and other unique yarns.

“Weaving is my other language, my expression of joy and frustrations,” Bodøgaard said.

The accomplished weaver has studied Norwegian tapestry techniques, dating back before 1200 A.D. in Oslo, Norway, and has researched textiles in Japan, Italy, Germany, France, Spain, Mexico, Guatemala, Alaska, New Mexico and Scandinavia.

Bodøgaard has exhibited and been given commissions throughout the U.S., Canada, Australia and Europe.

The tapestry artist will also conduct demonstrations in the public schools as “An Artist in the Schools” through the South Dakota Arts Council.

In addition to her workshop and public school instruction, Bodøgaard will work with the SDAM Native American research group to identify techniques and materials in the museum's collection.

Looms will be available for workshop participants to weave a small tapestry using basic interlocking, slits and diagonal methods.

Bodøgaard's visit is sponsored, in part, through the Cecilia Beirne Endowment.

Supplies participants should bring from home include scissors, a notebook, long-tined fork and a portable light if necessary.

Call the SDAM 605.688.5423 to pre-register, or go online to www.southdakotaartmuseum.com for more information.

South Dakota State University

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