The Subversive Stitch…threading the needle

EXHIBIT & ARTIST RECEPTION

The Subversive Stitch…threading the needle

Wheatgrass Books will host six artists for the first Art Walk of the Summer 2025 Season with an opening reception June 27^th from 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm. The Subversive Stitch is curated by local artist Traci Jo Isaly.

“Historically, humans have found ways of communicating through the mastery of self-expression.  That which cannot be articulated in words, is oftentimes demonstrated by creating with the hands. Anything we create with our hands; a painting, wooden objects, clay objects, woven baskets, woven anything, forged objects…the list goes on and on, is a form of self-expression. Working with fiber and thread is no exception. Creating from bits of cloth and fibers, sewn or woven together in a cohesive manner, can lead to some of the most brilliant works of art ever created. Needles made from bone and ivory have been discovered in primitive archeological sites around the globe. Humans have been stitching/weaving since time immortal.  As an artist, when threads dance with a needle, you never know for certain where the dance will take you. 

The Subversive Stitch brings together 6 talented artists; everyday people, who are carving out a creative life, living the best life, with thread and needle in hand.

I got the idea for the title of this show from a book called, The Subversive Stitch, by Roszika Parker, published in 1984. I love her book, and her work, which led me to Cecelia Andersson. I love her writing and pieces too.” – Traci Jo Isaly, Curator

“Throughout history, intricate weaves have pushed humanity forward by acting as a powerful means for artistic, personal, political, and everyday stories as well as subversive reflections on society at large. What artists have always known intuitively, psychologists are now recognizing: we think with our hands as much as with our brains”.  – Cecilia Andersson – The Powerful Agency of Threads

The Artists:
Traci Jo Isaly – Bozeman Pass, Montana – mixed media fiber art – soft formed figures, wall pieces and small intricate novelty pieces

Cindy Owings – McAllister, Montana – Fiber artist- mixed media works 

 Elli Hawks – Mellville, Montana – Samplers – artful beading on felt

Amanda Nadig – Chicago, Illinois – Large contemporary quilts

Jessi Konley – Livingston, Montana – Fiber art, weaver, rugs and wall hangings

Jay Manford – Livingston, Montana – Flower grower extraordinaire and quilt artist