Date Palms and Pine Needles
MODERN INTERPRETATIONS, ANCIENT MATERIAL
Given that the native peoples of California have been weaving the natural fibers that grow there for countless millennia, this is hardly an “unexpected” art form in and of itself. Modern San Diego artists, however, have taken these ancient materials in new directions, exploring societal and introspective themes.
Transitions by Peggy Wiedemann. Photo courtesy of Peggy Wiedemann.
Polly Jacobs Giacchina constantly searches for untried configurations to incorporate into her woven creations. She sometimes interlaces the natural fibers, such as the date palm seed frond, with painted strips of canvas, blending and contrasting natural, earthy hues with artificial tones.
While her technique is always evolving, her inspiration continues to draw from forms that occur in nature. Works such as “Where We Are” present very fluid, organic contours, even as the conical structures protruding from the wall appear almost otherworldly.
Peggy Wiedemann often gathers her own materials from the wild, selecting fibers for their particular texture and pliability. Her imaginative designs are deeply philosophical. Transitions resembles a common, utilitarian, woven basket that has unraveled and developed a mind of its own. The rolling loops seem to contemplate all that is transient and unpredictable. —DJS
Where Are We by Polly Jacob Giacchina. Five units woven separately, attached together, and hung approximately 6 feet up on the wall, looking down on viewer. Twined date palm seed frond. Photo credit: Rodney Nakamoto.