Oct
11
2018
Maria Navarra Pino
I took my first weaving class while living in upstate New York more than 40 years ago. It was fashionable at that time to weave sticks and feathers together and hope that it did not fall apart. My next class was on a four harness floor loom. The moment I sat at the loom and threw the shuttle I knew I was “home”. Through the years I have tried many weave structures, textures, palettes and fibers. I have been inspired by the colors and geography of upstate New York, the Rocky Mountains of Colorado (my hearts home) and the desert of New Mexico. Eight years ago I started weaving eight harness block twill, to my surprise, my inspiration became mathematical formulas and number sequences. I use these elements to determine the width and or length of each block or color sequence within each block. Therefore all my designs are original. The original pattern evolves according to the formula/number sequence being used. The result of combining this weave structure and these various formulas has captivated me. I believe that there is no end to what can be produced with this combination. I primarily weave with tencel, Texas organic cotton, and silk. These fibers create a sheen that accentuates the contrasting blocks. The drape and hand of these fibers and this weave structure is unsurpassed. It is so amazing that after 40 years I am still as excited about weaving as I was in the beginning. The entire process – designing the warp, dressing the loom and finally throwing the shuttle – to this day excites me. My current work is weaving rooted and classic–not trendy. It is my goal that my shawls/wraps be seen and worn as unique works of art; both visually and tactilely pleasing. That they be the focal point of any outfit is my aim.