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Know The Weaver Series February - March 2014
Eli Skogsrud first of all is a 'colour' person! Her works both reflect humour and strong emotions! Her specialty over many years has been ikat weaving! Still, colour is only one part of her toolbox: She is also playing with structure and texture through material combinations, finishing treatments and weave structures. Three years ago when she came to have a look at the TC2 loom, it took her 3 days to make up her mind! Then she called and said: "I have got to have that loom!" Please take a look at her website! period was followed by several years where 1. Could you describe to us the kind of work that you are into?
Eli
Skogsrud Independent Artist and TC2 owner Body of Work Eli uses the digital weaving technology to express her creativity. Among the wide range of products in her workshop are pictures, banners, pillows, curtains, scarfs and wearables.
Website www.weavingart.net
My interest in weaving spans across different styles and techniques, from the making of usable fabrics to decorative wall images. I focus a lot on colours and playful lines in my work, and I like to experiment with different materials and formats. My textiles are often developed throughout the weaving process, and I find it fascinating to experiment with different expressions. For example, my latest work is based on a hand-colored warp, and my inspiration for the motifs are human figures in different positions. 2. What got you interested in weaving and how has the journey been so far? I became interested in weaving from an early age. After finishing obligatory school, I soon decided to pursue an education as a teacher, specializing in work with textiles. As a teacher at Ringebu Folkehøyskole, I developed myself as a weaver, and decided to take a course hosted by Vibeke Vestby.. This was the start of a new journey, as she introduced me to the computer controlled shaft loom. I presented some of my work at exhibitions, and among other things made large scale woven images. For a couple of years, I focused only on weaving, before I got back to my work as a design teacher. This
I did very little weaving, but my interests sparked again hearing about a new version of the computer-controlled loom. 3. What made you and how has your weaving on it?
choose the TC2 experience been
When moving to Drammen in 2012, I became the lucky owner of a TC2, a tool that really gives hand weaving a wide range of possibilities. What inspired me to invest in the TC2 was the possibilities to experiment with waves, rounded shapes and curved lines, - and combining these patterns with playful combinations of colours. My present warp is hand dyed into different colour sections. I think this creates an exciting expression. I must say the opportunities seem endless! As such, I am looking forward to explore the unique possibilities further in the future. The weaving width of my TC2 is only 73 cm (28"), but the narrow width is compensated for by the possibility of composing separate panels, easily administered on the computer. It has been important for me that the TC2 is a reliable tool. I have had very little technical problems, and in the need of answers to technical or practical questions, the service at Tronrud Engineering has been excellent. Engineering has been excellent.