Unveiling the Enigmatic Tapestries of Kiki Smith

Kiki Smith, an artist renowned for her versatility across various mediums, has captivated the art world with her enigmatic tapestries that blend traditional craftsmanship with contemporary themes. Her tapestries, often monumental in scale, are captivating narratives that delve into the depths of human emotion, spirituality, and the natural world.

Smith's fascination with tapestries began in the early 1990s, intrigued by their rich history and the intricate process of weaving. She embarked on a journey of exploring this ancient art form, immersing herself in the techniques and traditions of tapestry making.

Smith's tapestries are not mere decorative pieces; they are profound visual dialogues that explore a multitude of themes. Her works often feature recurring motifs such as the female body, animals, and natural elements, infused with a sense of vulnerability, strength, and interconnectedness.

The female body, a central theme in Smith's oeuvre, takes on a powerful presence in her tapestries. She depicts women in various states of being, from pregnant mothers to mythological figures, challenging conventional representations and celebrating their inherent power and resilience.

Animals, another recurring motif in Smith's tapestries, are often depicted in a state of metamorphosis or transformation, symbolizing fluidity, change, and the interconnectedness of all living beings. She seamlessly blends human and animal forms, blurring the boundaries between the physical and spiritual realms.

A Fusion of Tradition and Innovation

Smith's tapestries are a testament to her ability to seamlessly blend traditional techniques with contemporary sensibilities. She employs a combination of handmade paper collages, digital manipulation, and electronic weaving to create her captivating works.

The process of creating Smith's tapestries begins with the creation of large-scale paper collages. These collages, often incorporating hand-drawn elements, photocopies, and other materials, serve as the foundation for her digital tapestries.

Once the collage is complete, it is scanned and converted into a digital file. Smith then manipulates the image using digital tools, enhancing the details and refining the composition. The final digital file is sent to a weaving studio, where it is transformed into a physical tapestry using an electronic loom.

The resulting tapestries are visually stunning, characterized by their vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and tactile textures. Smith's masterful use of scale, perspective, and negative space further enhances the impact of her works, drawing viewers into their mesmerizing depths.

Smith's tapestries continue to inspire and challenge viewers, inviting them to delve into the depths of the human experience, the mysteries of the natural world, and the transformative power of art itself. Her works stand as testaments to her artistic vision, her mastery of craftsmanship, and her unwavering commitment to exploring the boundless possibilities of artistic expression.

Each piece is 6 x 10 foot cotton jacquard and on view at robischongallery in Denver, Colorado.