Arna Shaw

My life long love of fabrics led me to become a weaver and clothing designer. Weaving is the perfect medium for me to explore my interest in color and texture. As the sole artist I am free to experiment with different fibers, colors, and styles. I believe functional items can be beautiful, and as art enrich our lives. This belief has guided me for more than 30 years as a weaver.I use a 24-harness loom that allows me to develop complex weaves. The most basic loom has 2 harnesses and by adding more harnesses the weaver can develop more complicated weaves and patterns. I create my own fabric structures and weaving designs using traditional weaves in new ways. I work primarily with cotton, rayon and silk yarns and have been experimenting with new fibers such as bamboo. These yarns combined with my intricate weaves create fabrics that are durable, yet soft, and flowing with a graceful drape.My use of color is inspired by everything I see. I look at the colors, textures, and shapes of the world around me and carry these concepts back to my loom. Then I choose my colors and weave structures and go to work. After the cloth is woven it is washed and dried. This shrinks the fabric and gives it its soft feel. Then each garment is individually cut and sewn.I endeavor to create apparel that is comfortable, stylish, and timeless. A quality garment should last a lifetime, and I am pleased to encounter my earlier work still being worn after 30 years.