Weaving as a Medium
Erin M. Riley’s creative journey began at an early age with an affinity for fabric and sewing. It was in art school that she discovered the medium of weaving—a perfect blend of the mathematical precision she enjoys and the expressive freedom of painting. The intricate process involves not only the physical labor of setting up looms and dying wool but also a deeper contemplation of the imagery presented in her works.
Art as a Reflection of Self-Identity and Trauma
Using her work as a conduit for expression, Erin delves into personal narratives, often addressing trauma and self-identity. Her tapestries portray raw, intimate moments, serving as both a canvas and a conversation with herself and her viewers. Through depictions of personal and sometimes painful memories, Erin has embraced her own healing journey while also acknowledging the diverse reactions her art may evoke in others.
Exploring the Intersection of Tradition and Modern Art in Tapestries
Erin’s work is redefining what it means to create a tapestry in the modern world. Known for her large-scale and non-traditional pieces, Erin challenges the conventional views often associated with tapestry art. Rather than depicting the typical depictions of history or religious scenes, her works tell poignant stories of self-exploration and identity.
Creating Connected Narratives Through Visual Stories
Erin’s process is as layered as her art. She incorporates elements from her life and past, including memories captured on film and aspects of her body and experiences. These elements combine into collaged tapestries that invite viewers to interpret and piece together their narratives. It’s a method reminiscent of creating a memoir in visual form, with recurring imagery linking back to the continuous themes within her life.
Future Aspirations and Creative Motivations
While Erin’s work is deeply personal, she sees the broader value in the conversations it generates about cultural issues and self-discovery. Her motivation is fueled by a desire to address topics that are both beautiful and crucially important, balancing aesthetic beauty with social messages. Her aspirations are not simply to create but to inspire ongoing discourse around the subjects her art explores.
Erin’s path as an artist has been anything but typical. She acknowledges the unique challenges and rewards that come with pursuing a career in art. The freedom in her lifestyle has allowed her to seize opportunities and be adaptable, though it’s also required sacrifices. Her journey speaks to a broader experience in the artistic community—one that values persistence, resilience, and the ability to create meaningfully.
Connect with Her Work
Erin can be found across social media and online platforms, with her work continually evolving and reflecting her introspective nature. Her upcoming solo exhibition, Watering False Flowers, will be coming to cadet capela in Paris from October 12 – November 16th 2024, and promises to resonate with themes of nostalgia and passage through personal history. To dive deeper into her world of tapestries, check out Erin’s website and instagram. Whether in person at an exhibition or virtually, exploring Erin’s modern tapestries offers an enlightening experience of art that transcends traditional boundaries while exploring profound personal narratives.
