Local Fiber Artist Dawn Hummer Showcases Craft at Pottery 101

Dawn Hummer, an accomplished basket weaver and fiber artist, will showcase her work at Pottery 101 in Salisbury. A reception is scheduled for January 3, 2024, from 17:00 to 19:00 at the gallery located at 101 S. Main St.. During this event, Hummer will engage with the community and discuss her artistic journey and the intricate processes behind her creations.

Hummer’s journey in fiber art began at a young age. She crafted her first pine needle basket at just seven years old and started knitting by twelve. Over the past 16 years, she has dedicated herself to weaving and has established her studio, Wildflower Woven Design, in Chapel Hill. Originally from Austin, Texas, her work emphasizes the mindful and time-intensive creation of unique woven art pieces, celebrating traditional patterns and techniques from various cultures.

In her artist statement, Hummer describes her pieces as “sculptural fiber art.” She appreciates the softness and flexibility of fiber, which allows for a more organic approach to creating three-dimensional works. Her background in education, where she advocated for students with disabilities, complements her artistic endeavors. Hummer has taught art to students and groups, sharing her passion for fiber arts with others.

Travel has significantly influenced Hummer’s artistic development. She has explored various cultural environments across the United States, Australia, Japan, and Europe, immersing herself in diverse artistic traditions. She dedicates time daily to refining her craft, focusing on the Slow Craft Movement, which prioritizes deliberate, handcrafted artistry over mass production.

Hummer’s weaving process involves meticulous techniques. Each piece begins with a “single hand-warped fiber sequence” using hundreds of sustainable, often hand-dyed threads. She employs a multiple harness floor loom and foot-treadled patterns to create designs rich in color and texture. The materials she utilizes include linen, silk, bamboo, wool, alpaca, tencel, cotton, hemp, and sugarcane, alongside metals, paper, and found objects.

Her woven baskets, crafted from sustainable reed and cane, reflect a commitment to environmentally conscious artistry. Hummer expressed her excitement about being featured at Pottery 101, stating that she feels “flattered” and enjoys engaging with others about her work. She hopes the community will appreciate the traditional crafts that have lost popularity over time, noting that many people can recall a family member who has woven baskets or worked on a loom.

Hummer aims for attendees to gain insight into her appreciation for historical techniques, emphasizing that every culture has woven cloth and vessels. She believes in the importance of choosing handcraft over machine-made items, underscoring the value of tradition and craftsmanship in today’s world. As the reception approaches, Hummer looks forward to sharing her passion and expertise with the Salisbury community.