Shaker Rug Bindings 1935 - 1942

These Shaker Rug Bindings were drawn by Ingrid Selmer-Larsen, using coloured pencil, in a sketchbook. I can imagine her bent over her work with a magnifying glass to capture the way in which these tightly-woven textiles come together. The horizontal bands are carefully delineated and display such a refined approach to color, with tones that are rich and earthy – think of the faded grandeur of a well-worn rug. I'm so struck by the intimate scale and humble subject matter. Selmer-Larsen’s careful arrangement of colors and patterns reminds me of the work of another textile artist, Anni Albers. In focusing on the overlooked details of everyday life, the artist celebrates the artistry inherent in craft and making. It makes you think about how we can find beauty in the mundane.