DONNA WINCHESTER

Fiber artist

The thread that connects my career evolution over four decades from graphic designer to newspaper reporter to communications strategist has been the desire to gather and share information using images, words and mediums. A similar desire has informed my creative exploration as I’ve experimented with watercolor, photography and printmaking.

My current fascination is fiber art and the ability of textiles to serve as a source of narrative. I’m inspired by the feel, smell and aura of fibers – sumptuous velvets, decadent brocades, shimmering organdies – and their ability to communicate emotion and meaning. Employing techniques such as reverse applique, rusting, shibori and hand and machine embroidery allows me to introduce intrigue and coax fibers to communicate color, texture and form.

While some of my pieces are purely decorative, I’ve become increasingly attracted to creating work that is both visually pleasing and utilitarian, such as tapestry bags embellished with beading and hand stitching. I’ve also begun experimenting with fabric manipulation techniques to create textural and dimensional surfaces, amplifying “voice” and furthering storytelling potential.