Weaving Samples, "Nova" pattern c. 20th century

Curator: This is "Weaving Samples, 'Nova' pattern" by Otti Berger, currently held in the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: My first impression is warmth, that intense orange is quite striking, and the simple vertical pattern gives it a kind of quiet energy. Curator: It’s fascinating to consider Berger's textile work in relation to the Bauhaus project. She was deeply invested in the possibilities of industrial production. Editor: Absolutely. As a Jewish woman at the Bauhaus, her story speaks volumes about the intersection of gender, labor, and artistic innovation in a tumultuous era. This textile is a testament to her resilience. Curator: Her focus on material innovation and weaving techniques moved beyond traditional notions of art. Editor: It makes me reflect on the often-overlooked contributions of women in design and the sociopolitical contexts shaping their creativity. Curator: The "Nova" pattern, in its simplicity, embodies a radical shift in thinking about the purpose of art. Editor: Yes, it’s a potent reminder that art can be found in the everyday, challenging conventional hierarchies.