Core Memory: Encoded

Robin Kang. "Phantasmic Data Dawn", 2015. Hand Jacquard woven cotton, synthetic yarns, hand dyed wool, plastic bag.

Image: Robin Kang. “Phantasmic Data Dawn,” 2015. Hand jacquard woven cotton, hand dyed wool, synthetic yarns and plastic bag.

The exhibition Core Memory draws from the creative legacy of the H. Sophie Newcomb Memorial College and its prescient synthesis of art, craft, and design to understand weaving technologies. Featuring the work of more than forty artists, Core Memory puts into conversation two modalities of weaving: Indigenous basketry and the emergent field of systems-based textiles. The exhibit explores disparate approaches toward media, tradition and composition – and investigates the animating forces within each artist’s creative practice.

Encoded, organized by Newcomb Art Museum Curator Laura Blereau, highlights a contemporary shift in art toward weaving and fiber arts, as well as computational processes – two production modes with deep connections to grids and women practitioners. Ahree Lee’s algorithmic approach to textiles recalls Ada Lovelace, the 19th century mathematician. Threaded works by video art pioneer Beryl Korot contemplate the impact of technology and language on human behavior and cultural change. Faig Ahmed’s sculptures are produced with weavers from his native Azerbaijan, where carpets have been handwoven since the Bronze Age. Robin Kang uses a digital Jacquard loom to craft tapestries that combine mystical energy and symbolism with computer glitch.

The Core Memory exhibitions, Louisiana Native American Basketry and Encoded, put into conversation two modalities of weaving: Indigenous basketry and the emergent field of systems-based textiles.

About the Exhibition

On View
February 19 – June 25, 2022
CoreMemory: Encoded
Curated by Laura Blereau

Gathering the work of four artists, Core Memory: Encoded explores the emergent field of systems-based textiles and marks a contemporary shift in art towards computational process and fiber arts.