ARTH 352/2-A - Studies in the History of Fibre Art: An Examination of Selected Subjects in the History of Fibre Art: Hybridity in 20th Century Textile Art

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T-10:15-12:30
EV-1.605
INSTRUCTOR: SUSAN SURETTE

A hybrid is created by intermingling heterogeneous sources, and is understood as something composed of elements of different or incongruous kinds. Hybridity has become a key concept in postcolonial studies as well as being closely aligned to interdisciplinarity, and even so-called post disciplinary practices in craft and art. In this course we will explore the notion of hybridity in twentieth-century textile art by examining four themes: cultural crossover, textile reclamation and reuse, fine art/ craft transgressions, and the expanded concept of fibres in art. The different nuances of hybridity that emerge within the context of the objects and productions encountered through these themes will be addressed in the lectures, readings and discussions. The objects and productions examined will include seminal Canadian work, but will also encompass examples from around the world. Among others we will look at Cowichan sweaters, Inuit tapestry, textiles in architecture, American quilts, sloppy craft, DIY, the reclamation and repurposing of garments in textile art, unconventional fibres, and textile art in performance. Evaluation will be based upon weekly participation, a midterm exam, a research project, and a final take-home assignment.