weaving
Nanny Radenman
Please tell us a bit about yourself.
I work within textile arts using tapestry weaving as my main technique. I have studied at Handarbetets vänner skola (HV), Kawashima textile school (KTS) and I am now pursuing my MA at Konstfack University of Arts, Crafts and Design.
What first led you to textiles, and why did you specifically turn your attention to tapestry weaving?
My interest in textiles was developed as a child, influenced by my mother. She is a trained seamstress and weaver and like many others, the textile knowledge was taught down from one generation to the next. The older I get, the more I appreciate how her relationship with the material has affected me. I spent three years at HV ((Handarbetets Vänner) where tapestry weaving was one of many techniques we were taught. Back then, the technique did not resonate with me. It was years after HV, in 2019, that by chance found myself weaving a small tapestry and loving the freedom I got from it.
Can you share your thoughts on how your education within textiles and crafts has shaped your view of this medium?
I have a traditional education, with both HV and KTS. I feel very confident and relaxed in my craftsmanship which gives me artistic freedom. I feel respect and care towards textile and that influence my work. My education also gave me an understanding of the textile industry, which has meant that I usually buy second-hand, both clothes and yarn.
What is the process and the thinking behind your pieces?
Sometimes I work with a simple sketch and sometimes without. I have a feeling that I am trying to communicate. The most important part is choosing the yarn and finding an interesting mix of color and material. When I have my base palette I sit down and weave and see where I and the work end up.
Can you share your thoughts on how important time is in developing such great details and quality in your pieces?
Time is very important for me, the work is therapeutic and I can not rush the work.
We love the name that you give to your pieces: NOT TRYING TO GET BY, TRYING TO GET FREE, HEALING BY WEAVING. Please tell us how these names came about.
The titles for my work usually pop up during the weaving process. ”Not trying” is a quote from the song ”Get free” by Mereba and refers to my practice leading my life in the ”right” direction. The series ”Healing by weaving” was my first tapestry work and is dear to me for many reasons. It pushed me through a rough patch and showed me how to gain strength from the work.
You beautifully wrote on your website that "In the connection between brain, heart, and hand the work is therapeutic." Can you share your thoughts on the therapeutic benefits of your practice?
My practice and personal life go hand in hand and I experience that I can process both good and bad times in the work. My practice is my best friend.
We strongly believe that crafts provide an ideal setting for environmental and social change. How do you believe that we can create more space for that?
I work two and a half days over there, and then two and a half days here in my studio. It's about 50-50.
You´ve mentioned on your website that “ the interaction between craft and industrial work is very important.” Can you share your thoughts on the intersection between these two worlds and why is so important?
By speaking more of the time behind all work. I would say that craft provides you a different view of the world, you gain a bit more understanding of the hours behind products and services. This has made me more appreciative of what I have, taking a step off the rollercoaster of consumption and finding other values in life.
What upcoming projects make you excited right now?
I am in the middle of my MA at Konstfack. For my project, I´m doing research on how craft can be beneficial in aged care with a focus on dementia sufferers. I am also looking forward to upcoming exhibitions in Stockholm and London later this year. And as always, I am excited about spending time in my studio, with my looms and material.
Where and how can people engage more with your work?
People can ingage with my work via my website www.nannyradenman.com and Instagram at @nannyradenman.
All photos belong to Nanny.
