MARIEKE VAN MIEGHEM
TEXTILES
marieke
The love for nature, materials and textiles runs like a thread through my life. The thread as a connection between the material, the hands, the head and the heart.
Curiosity, wonder and experimentation; for me it is important to read a material. To see its value, its different appearances, its possibilities and challenges. Getting to know a material in this way by examining and unravelling it, gives me the feeling of entering into a real relationship with it and that is the basis of my work.
Being in nature is important to me. While walking, often in my own environment, I use my senses and marvel at how much beauty is there for the taking. All these materials have the potential to be worked with, to dye with, weave with or make threads out of and challenge me!
I am convinced that we need to restore this connection with nature and thereby be more connected to ourselves, other people and the planet.
Photo: Loes Schepens
flax & linen
Since 2020, Marieke has participated in the Linen Stewardship, this Shared Stewardship is an initiative of "The Linen Project." Flax is therefore one of the main materials she uses and explores a lot in her work. Working in the field, her feet in the heavy clay, her hands pulling the flax from the ground, the great beauty of this plant with its changing colours throughout the season, following each step from sowing the flax to processing, brings the artist in connection with nature and in connection with the raw material. There is a strong desire to get out what is in it.
What possibilities do the different years and qualities offer?
What parts of the flax can all be used? These are questions the artist regularly asks herself. And by asking, investigating and putting her senses on edge, she develops her own textures, structures and forms.
Being a linen steward also brings a lot of fun and joy, working in the field with like-minded people is very dear to Marieke and creates a sense of belonging and togetherness.
For more information about The Linen Project:
