Sharon Nemirov
Artist Statement
With a background in Fine Art and Craft, I feel I have “come home” to my most expressive medium in fiber art. After many years making studio pottery, I have left the tactile realm of ceramics to explore that of textiles—a medium that, like pottery, also includes a reference to function (i.e. clothing); yet my aim now is to create work in a purely visual “fine art” role. For subject matter, my inspiration springs from observing the natural world and my intention is to produce works that celebrate the beauty that surrounds us. I am inspired by landscapes and especially plant life, including the unique, sculptural forms prevalent where I now live in the southwest’s Sonoran Desert. I also have an affinity for leaves of all kinds.
Essentially, I see art’s purpose as a means to enrich our lives, as well as to enhance our ability to “SEE.” Art heightens awareness of the visual, bringing into focus such aspects as color and texture, sunlight and shadow, near and far. Art helps you notice contrasts between, for example, a reflective sheen or soft matte surface, sharp or diffused edges; to enjoy the play of natural patterning, the myriad colors of the land or the broad expanse of the vast sky. A work of art can fascinate by depicting the effect of the bright desert sunlight on a humble plant, the intriguing detail in the vein of a leaf, the juxtaposition of curving lines in a group of seed pods.
I see a dual value in my representational art: first is to highlight the subject, and equally, to delight, intrigue and inspire with the techniques, craftsmanship and materials themselves. My materials include new and used (up-cycled) textiles of all types and fiber content, my own dye-painted fabric, including plain and over-dyed commercial fabric, vintage linens, my digital photography printed on cotton or silk, all manner of threads, laces, trims, fabric paints, markers, and more. I enjoy incorporating many techniques, including merging my medium of plein aire watercolor painting with fiber art by drawing and painting from life directly on the textile surface, then adding machine stitching as a design and construction element.
It is a pleasure to hone my skills and share my talent. Creating art satisfies my need to design and construct, making a tactile commemoration of our visually fascinating world and showcasing an array of beautiful textiles. I hope the viewer also feels treated to a gratifying experience. “A Feast for the Eyes” is a phrase I’ve always loved!
For a complete exhibitions list and full resume, as well as many more artworks, please visit her website sharonnemirov.com
