The Shadow
Clifton Forge, Virginia – Clifton Forge School of the Arts is pleased to announce the opening of its latest exhibition, Sisters at the Loom: The Baer Family Legacy; Featuring the Weavings of Catharine Hagan. The exhibition showcases the rich history of weaving in the Alleghany Highlands and surrounding areas. The tradition of weaving is celebrated through the display of reproductions of nineteenth-century weaving drafts, on loan from Washington and Lee University Library Special Collections, alongside the contemporary works of local weaver Catharine Hagan.
Featured in the collection are textiles produced by a group of contemporary handweavers who utilized patterns collected by the Baer family in the early 1800s. These historic patterns come back to life nearly two hundred years later to provide an in-depth view of the history of household textiles and their uses throughout the home. The legacy of weaving continues with the contemporary work of Catharine Hagan, which includes woven throws, towels, and pillows available for purchase. Visitors will have a hands-on opportunity to try out the art of weaving on small looms and live loom weaving demonstrations are scheduled periodically throughout the exhibition’s run.
“We are excited to showcase the legacy of weaving in our area and how that tradition continues to be carried on by dedicated weavers today,” said Christina Gramm, Director of Education & Programming at Clifton Forge School of the Arts. “We hope this exhibition sparks wonder and curiosity about the importance, function, and artistry of weaving throughout history.” Additionally, the school has been gifted a collection of looms over the years by various donors which will be a cornerstone of future fiber arts programming.
Sisters at the Loom is on view at Clifton Forge School of the Arts from September 14, 2023, through January 26, 2024. Gallery hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m.-2:00 .pm., or later by appointment, with occasional exceptions when the Gallery is in use for a class or event. Please join us for an opening reception on Friday, September 22, 2023, from 6:00-8:00 p.m. For additional information about Clifton Forge School of the Arts please visit www.cfsota.org.
