My name is Julia Kehew, and I am a fiberholic. (Hi, Julia!)
Although I have been an artist from the moment I could clutch a crayon, I received formal art training resulting in an AA degree in Art Studio from American River College in 1997, followed by a Bachelor’s degree in Art Studio and Art History from the University of California Davis in 1999. For reasons that are somewhat inexplicable to me now, I went on to complete a Masters degree and Ph.D. in American History from the University of California Davis in 2009.
My academic grounding in both art and history combine to layer my work with historical significance. Much of my technique centers on ancient wet felting processes, and I also draw on our collective fiber heritage through hand dyeing, hand spinning, and hand knitting. Whether I am fashioning hats that recall Hollywood’s Golden Age or constructing pieces that pay homage to my Native American heritage, strands of history are intertwined throughout each and every fiber.
In my home and studio environment, I insist that objects be functional, as well as evocative expressions of creative spirit. I strive to conceive pieces that allow people to interact with art every single day to add richness and meaning to their lives. Fiber works invite a deeply personal daily connection with art in a way that no other medium can.
Is it any wonder I’m hooked?
Questions? Comments? Contact me!