Artist Profile: Susan Claflin

Susan Claflin

Bio:

My work as a textile artist is grounded in a lifelong passion for creating with fiber, exploring nature, and a reverence for the traditions of different cultures. Influenced by two generations of family, I began sewing at a very young age. In addition to sewing, I learned a plethora of traditional fiber skills. The meditative process of working with textiles was a calming process for me; it still is. Traveling through our National Parks and taking everyday walks has allowed me to explore the healing powers of nature. In addition, for part of my career, I lived and traveled throughout Asia, where nature and symbolism are deeply embedded in the region's cultural practices, including traditional fiber techniques. As a textile artist, my current focus is on the ancient technique of wet felting. The felting process uses organic wool fibers, water, and agitation to form a base fabric. Using various shaping/molding techniques, I create whimsical and/or utilitarian pieces that are embellished with upcycled materials.