HAND/EYE: New Mexico and the Genius of Place

Julia Mandeville shares her thoughts on the otherworldly dimensions of 

Walter De Maria's The Lightening Field (images via Dia Art Foundation)

My artist residency at The LAND/an art site in rural New Mexico 

– an examination of 'genius loci' and the role of natural fiber

Gail Rieke's textured collages and assemblages

pay homage to perfectly calibrated environments

Hand/Eye New Mexico Issue 07

It was such a tremendous joy to receive this latest issue of HAND/EYE magazine at the beginning of 2012. I have had such a love affair with New Mexico's landscape since my first pilgrimage in 1995. This current edition of HAND/EYE genuinely demonstrates why both rural and urban New Mexico are interwoven to create 'the land of enchantment'. 

Dr. Pamela Ravasio reports on Colcha embroidery

– one of the few indigenous textiles of New Mexico

From the Acoma potters of 'Sky City' to the vibrant Santa Fe International Folk Market to 'low rider' culture to traditional 'Colcha' embroidery – this colorful and multi-textured view on the hand/eye connections of the desert Southwest will both transport and ground you via a close examination of regional crafting methodologies. It is an inspiring read and one that will make you experience a bit of wanderlust during the depths of winter.

Learn more about the spirit of HAND/EYE here. 

Vogue Knitting Live Sampler

Detail of recycled fiber forms by Abigail Doan

Here is a sampling of images from the Vogue Knitting Live 'art gallery' this past weekend. My fiber forms were actually handled and touched a lot more than I was hoping for, but all in all, it was a positive experience. I just do not understand why folks cannot learn by looking rather than by handling. It is a curious thing. I guess that I should take it as a compliment that my pieces looked so tactile that touching seemed appropriate? Something to ponder.

I leave for Sofia today. NYC, I will miss you. Thank you for the injection of love and inspiration. See you when the sweet blossoms emerge and winter hibernation is complete.

(photos by Abigail Doan)

materials: old denim, dried grasses, recycled plastic bag 'plarn' from Eastern Bulgaria, textile scraps, hand-dyed wool, treats from Habu textiles, Japanese paper, seed pods, a lace making needle, beer tab, popsicle stick, silk cocoons, deflated party balloon found on the street, candy wrappers, paper ticket, recycled lace, vintage thread spools, linen cord.