A California
Dreaming presentation
Bill Rafnel - The Artist
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Artist Statement
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The damask weave structure and block designs provide the basis for
my pieces. We live within structure and yet our spirits seem to lift
ever upward through the fabric of our time. Using the damask weave with
ever-changing geometric shapes and color I strive to move from the fast
pace of our exterior world to the center of the contemplative world,
the world of serenity. My weavings are geometric landscapes that emerge
through outward and inward imagery. They embody the world as seen through
the spiritual insight of a power greater than ourselves. Using my hands
and feet I weave the damask interlacement mixing color and light reflection
to achieve luminescence. Art/Weaving Education: Southern Illinois University, Rochester Institute of Technology, Pendleton Weaving School, Sedona, AZ, Basin School of Textiles, Berkeley, CA Education: Southern Illinois University, BA Colgate Rochester Divinity School, MTh Weaving Experience: Bill began weaving as a hobby in 1973. Today he does commissioned work for both private and public display. He shows his work in galleries and with the American Craft Council. His weavings are innovative, using fiber, color and the damask weave to give light reflection and color contrast. Woven damask is called the "Cloth of Kings". Bill's weavings reflect this classic title. I use an AVL 16 shaft loom with a computer interface. It should be noted that the work of the computer interface is to remember the next weft pick for it does not create the design on the loom, rather, I create the design and enter the fiber and colors where I want them. In other words, all of my handweaving is manual. I weave with a pearl cotton fiber pallet of over 200 colors; blending these colors provides infinite opportunities for color and design. The simple block patterns and designs are well suited for residential rooms, lobbies, churches, businesses, offices and public buildings. Large group installations can be designed and handwoven to fill large spaces. Grouping the wall pieces in geometric configurations provides a decor of rare beauty.
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