OPEN STUDIOS ON THE SIDEWALK

Introducing:

 

Alanna Nelson

Fiber artist currently living in Marion.

“Shelter” conveys both a physical and emotional protection to me. Safety and a sense of home in my physical location is crucial. Without a community, that home is hollow. Shelter also offers opportunities for contemplation. That happens when I feel safe. I realize that I’m a rare and lucky person to enjoy this.

Since elementary school, I’ve been a maker. It started with sewing, knitting, embroidery, gardening, cooking. My curiosity led me from there.

Since elementary school, I’ve been an active volunteer. It started with Scouts, choir, band, political advocacy and civic organizations. Jumping into life on three continents and north, south, east and west of the United States by volunteering has been key to making the most of the places I’ve called home.

It’s natural that making and community connection blended during the last twenty years. My fiber art evolves with every location I call home. The place, textile history, and available tools offer opportunities for me to explore techniques and bring them into my art.

Since moving to the South Coast of Massachusetts in 2020, creative writing and fiber arts stimulate new inspiration. I’m writing poems inspired by fiber art, zeitgeist and my personal beliefs. Who knows what comes next?

More from the artist:

One of the wonderful advantages to fiber arts is its portability. I have a dedicated studio in my house, but you’ll find needles and threads in the living room, in my purse, and dye stuffs in the garden (watch out for that jar in the fridge, too). If I can make it outdoors, I will!

Moving to the South Coast at the beginning of the pandemic slowed progress on building my artistic community. Time alone, outdoors and on the water, time reestablishing my studio filled the first two years here. It wasn’t a super easy time to create personal connections, but it has moved my fiber art in new directions.

I know from past moves that it takes me about two years to get my bearings. This time, it’s taken a bit longer. Social distancing, zoom meetings and social media are great, but… While that’s frustrating in some ways, the gift is there. The community is vibrant and I am jumping into the pool.

Launching “Sippizine,” the South Coast Massachusetts community culture journal is one way to spotlight our vibrant community. It’s exciting to see the first issue. I’m looking forward to the future.

Explore Alanna’s Instagram &

 Visit her website to see more artwork.

MEDIA INQUIRIES

For media inquiries, please contact: Edwina A. Kluender, KLÜNDER Communications [email protected] & PH 1.617.888.5859. Here is our downloadable press release: DATMA SHELTER2023 Press Release Announcement Here.

Events

DATMA Design Day: Community Mural

Join us in celebrating 25 years of AHA! at our Community Mural event! Everyone is welcome to stop by and add their unique artistic touch to a large public art wall. No experience necessary—just bring your imagination and a desire to create! Whether you want to paint, draw, or add your own creative flair, this

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