Grade 3 Meets Weaver Helena Hernmarck

“She and one of her looms are "installed" in the museum,” Lower Campus art teacher (and field trip coordinator) Geri Heinrich said. “It’s a rare treat to see an accomplished artist making art and having an opportunity to interact with her and to ask questions.”

 

On exhibit in the gallery was a wonderful selection of completed works along with materials from the artist’s archives that help to illustrate all the planning that goes into them. One of the tapestries hangs away from the wall specifically so the back side can be viewed. This gave students a sense of how the piece was made and all the work that goes on during the weaving process.

 

“Helena Hernmarck explained many things about her art: where she gets ideas, who buys her art, the various materials she uses, and wool and its collection and dying processes,” Mrs. Heinrich said. As the artist was demonstrating her weaving process, she “spoke aloud about the things she was thinking as she was working. Students were very curious and asked many thoughtful questions.”

 

You should go to Helena Hernmarck’s website to scroll through photos of her incredible Connecticut studio. It’s really worth a look!

 

Current exhibition: "Helena Hernmarck: Weaving in Progress"   

Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum through January 27, 2019

 

PHOTOGRAPHY: Geri Heinrich