Berman, Laura

I’ve been passionate about textiles since learning to hand sew as a young girl. Growing up in the Pacific Northwest, wool was well-suited for our winter climate and was the topic I chose to explore for an important 4th grade science project. Fast-forward in time: I received both my BS and MS degrees from Oregon State University studying apparel and textiles; I continue to be drawn to the world of textiles, fashion, and clothing construction; and I’m still intrigued by the wondrous natural properties of wool and its ability to trap heat for warmth even when wet.

This past 6 years I’ve concentrated on wet felting wool by hand for both wearables and whimsical sculptured vessel. The vessels have been a recent and exciting direction and, they’ve enabled me to explore and develop a wide range of self-taught techniques in 3-D sculptural work. Unexpectedly, each sculpture “speaks” to me and ends up with a quirky or unique persona when finished. So…each gets a name to continue its communication with others.

My scarves are Nuno-felted—wool that is felted into a fabric base. This technique enables me to create felted work with drape, warmth, texture, and some sheerness. I’ve always preferred working with fine textiles and I will primarily use Australian merino wool and silk chiffon. In addition, my goal is to produce fine fiber craftsmanship that is rich in color, completely reversible, and with strong visual presence when worn as an accessory or when draped for display.

I find my style reflects an interest in textures, graphic design, and vibrant color combinations that can brighten up our lives in the gray winters of the Northwest–or wherever one lives and travels.

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