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Cloth & Culture
NOW
the artists - Mare Kelpman, Estonia
My education in the field of textiles took place relatively late.
My first studies in art were a mixture of graphic design and fine
art subjects. I was interested in painting and intended to continue
in painting, but on recommencing my studies I chose a completely
new field. I suddenly realised that fabric is important to me as
a material; it was something I felt close to. As a child I had
always puzzled about how it was made and from what. Finally, I
found the answer.
Why is textiles important to me?
I confess that I stand in awe before every tiny textile piece.
I am in awe of every yarn producer, knitter, maker of knitting
machines, dyers, printers and all the other technicians, who
put their heart and soul into their work. Accustomed as I have
become to technical progress, the complicated fabrics made by
the old masters that can now be produced in series all seems
all the more unbelievable.
For me the most exciting textiles are those born of the skilful
use of technique, the re-interpretation of these and the search
for new ways of working. Of course, the concept is also important
and a textile artist’s work can often be simple and witty.
But I usually enjoy a wonderful textile produced by a factory more
than a unique piece created by a textile artist.
In my work, seeking out materials with the right qualities is important
for me, as is the way materials behave and work together and the
ability to bring out their tactile and aesthetic qualities. I value
the application of technical skill—how materials change as
they are worked and how they can be cleverly combined.
What inspires me?
Freedom. I grew up by the sea. The sea lay just beyond our garden.
That unexplainable feeling of dreams and the freedom of thought
produced by being near the sea has carried me throughout my life.
To be creative I need freedom. I cannot work in oppressive conditions
whether they be conditions of time, space or mind.
Music – I often leave the concert hall not remembering
the pieces performed, but many a textile idea the richer.
Architecture, painting, fashion.
On the one hand, I am inspired by a clean, clear aesthetic – "less
is more". On the other hand, abundance and luxuriousness – more
and more and more.
Love, peace, my inner need to work.
Social awareness – this aspect I mostly apply when I teach.
Students.
I am happy when I see development, wonderful results, the growth
of an interesting, talented and hardworking creator.
Folk art – the use of old and forgotten techniques in a new
way.
Materials, innovative techniques.
Translated by Ulvi Haagensen
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