Brenda J Bunten-Schloesser

Art communicates a story and provides the stage to express feelings and emotions, and observe ‘the dance’ of everyday life.  Each step in our journey, whether a stumble or leap of faith, results in a change to the story and becomes the impetus for ‘the dance’.

My primary emphasis is surface design and includes works in fiber and textile mosaics.  Fiber sculptures and textile mosaics are created from white cotton fabric hand-painted with reactive dye.  The painted fabric is then cut into various shapes and hand-sewn together to create the final piece.  Cotton cord and other natural objects are incorporated into the piece to further enhance the image and message being conveyed.  Each finished piece has a unique presence to it – a natural feeling and sense of being.

I like to work with fiber because of its special properties and ability to convey my story.  Fiber is a part of our everyday life.  It comes from plants or animals, keeps us warm and is used for shelter.  I have learned through my art that fiber can take on a life of its own.  The element of surprise is always looming.  When working with fiber one must be prepared to make adjustments and change course.

I am inspired by the world around us and the events that influence our lives.  I like to assimilate the changes in our lives into ‘the dance’.  Each piece represents a journey and the events in our lives. We are all connected by the places we have been and our life experience.  My objective is to incorporate ‘the dance’ into my work using perspective and space to create a sense of depth drawing the viewer into the image, the moment in time and the story being told.