Line & Thread: Exploring the Intersection of Prints and Textiles
The New York Public Library’s Stephen A. Schwarzman Building is currently hosting a captivating exhibition titled “Line & Thread,” where textiles transform into prints and prints evolve into textiles. This unique showcase features a blend of historical pieces and contemporary artworks that highlight the interconnectedness between these two art forms.
The origins of this symbiotic relationship can be traced back to the Latin word “texere,” meaning “to weave,” which serves as the foundation for both textiles and text. Cotton, a crucial material in both print and textile production, has played a significant role in the evolution of these art forms over the centuries.
As visitors navigate through the exhibition space on the third-floor hallway-gallery of the Rayner Special Collections Wing, they are greeted with a diverse array of artworks that span different time periods and styles. From embroidered books and silk appliqués to modern prints by renowned artists like Faith Ringgold, Graham Baldwin, Sonia Delaunay, Kiki Smith, and more, the exhibition offers a comprehensive overview of the evolution of prints and textiles.
One of the highlights of the exhibition is the exploration of collage and quilt techniques in various artworks. Loretta Pettway’s collaboration with Paulson Fontaine Press in “Remember Me” showcases vibrant jewel tones in an abstract quilt-like composition. Jacquelyn Strycker’s “Arrival,” on the other hand, blurs the lines between paper and fabric, sewing and printing, creating a visually striking piece that challenges traditional boundaries.
“Line & Thread” embodies a spirit of innovation and experimentation, inviting visitors to explore the limitless possibilities that arise when different creative processes intersect. As ideas, materials, and techniques collide and intertwine, the exhibition offers a glimpse into a world where lines meander and threads tangle in unexpected ways.
This boundary-breaking exhibition is a fitting addition to the New York Public Library, a renowned institution known for its vast collection of archives and books. “Line & Thread” celebrates tradition while pushing the boundaries of creativity, encouraging viewers to imagine new possibilities in the realm of prints and textiles.
For art enthusiasts and history buffs alike, “Line & Thread: Prints and Textiles from the 1600s to the Present” is a must-see exhibition that promises to inspire and delight. Curated by Madeleine Viljoen, the showcase will be on display at the New York Public Library’s Stephen A. Schwarzman Building in the Rayner Special Collections Wing until January 12, 2025.
