that’s a wrap
MANDI SMETHELLS TAKES WEAVING
TO A BOLD AND COLOURFUL PLACE.Tell us, what do you do? I’m a fibre artist living and working in
Saint Paul, Minnesota.
How did you start out in the crafty biz? About four years ago
I picked up weaving after wall hangings started popping up all over
the internet. My twin sister had originally shown them to me, and
I set out to make one as a birthday gift for her. I immediately fell
in love with fibre work, and exploring more colourful and abstract
designs than I had previously in print-making.
Tell us about your weaving technique. Being quite new to this
medium, I had to put in a lot of time – thousands of hours – to
realise I wanted to be more illustrative in my work. Once I began
working with this more dimensional wrapping technique, I just built
upon some basic knotting, and through trial and error developed my
assemblage approach.
What materials do you use? My studio is filled with cotton rope in
various sizes; many varieties and weights of yarn; steel wire; and
occasionally other materials such as trim and beads. I periodically
walk around craft and secondhand stores looking for new material
ideas, as I’m constantly driven by a desire to innovate.
How long do you spend on each piece? This can vary quite a bit
depending on size, intricacy and the materials used. Generally,
it’s anywhere from one to 12 hours.
Do you have a particular fondness for rainbows? I do... for many
reasons. Firstly, I admire the magic that happens when all the colours
of the rainbow come together, and the impact of their relationship.
For a long time, I’ve been drawn to curves, scallops and arches.
The joy this symbol carries for so many – and for so many different
reasons – makes it powerful to me. I feel honoured to be working with
an icon that represents positivity, pride and happiness.
What makes your work unique? I think, if you make something
that truly comes from inside, and you’re not too inspired by other
artists, the result will be unique. I have a very personal connection
to the work I create, and I’m often influenced by my experience as a
mother, my lifelong interest in nature, and my obsession with bright
colours and bold patterns. I’m just trying to make art that reflects
my insides, not necessarily a ‘product’. I’m so pleased people want
to buy them, though!
What shape would you like to make next? Our family recently
acquired a new kitten, and it struck me that I haven’t created a cat
yet (I love cats). I have an idea in mind, and am just waiting for a
little free time to execute it.
Where can we see more of your work? mandismethells.com or
on Instagram at @mandismoothhillslook what i made