Fundamental to the fine arts (oil on canvas, pencil on paper), markmaking enjoys a new vitality when it is considered as a surface design technique in the textile arts. Painterly, graphic, or illustrative effects can be achieved on cloth in a variety of ways, and the transition from traditional “fine arts” to the fibre arts opens up new fields of exploration for the artisan.

In contrast to markmaking, where the trace of the human hand gives the mark its vitality, bringing imagery onto the surface can provide a counterpoint, a foundation, or a map. The tension between imagery (in particular photo-based imagery) and markmaking can be exploited for full creative effect.

In this workshop students will explore both image and markmaking as complementary approaches to surface design. Photo transfer techniques will be used, and methods for using inkjetprinted images on cloth will be surveyed. Students will work on both cloth and paper with a variety of materials including fabric paints and inks. Emphasis will be on exploring effects with a consideration of which combinations of techniques are most effective to achieve student aims.

Natalie Grambow has an extensive background in design, teaching, and textile arts. An accredited Interior Designer, she spent many years in Ottawa working within the architectural design field and teaching Design Theory. Natalie’s first deep exploration of textiles began during her Visual Arts/Photography studies at the University of Ottawa when she experimented with non-silver techniques of transferring photographic imagery onto cloth. She subsequently studied at the École d’Impression Textile à Montréal and later travelled to Asia and Latin America where she spent six months learning to weave with local Mayan weavers in Guatemala. Shortly after completing the Textile Arts program at Capilano College in 2001, she was awarded the BC Craft Association’s Award of Excellence. 

Natalie has exhibited her textile art installations in the Lower Mainland, Vancouver, Vancouver Island, and the Sunshine Coast. She  has also developed a line of naturally dyed and printed fabrics and has been commissioned by such clients as the city of North Vancouver. Currently living in Roberts Creek, BC, she continues her art practice and studies from her studio.