Huntington Woods Celebrates Fiber Art with Rachel Brunhild’s Exhibit “Center”
For the creative souls wandering through the Huntington Woods Library, there’s something special happening! Until October 26, visitors can take a stroll through an inspiring fiber art exhibit titled “Center”. This lovely display, showcasing nearly 40 pieces of art, is the brainchild of the talented artist Rachel Brunhild.
A Journey Through Fiber Art
Rachel, who holds a bachelor’s degree in fine arts focusing on apparel and textile design from Michigan State University and a master’s degree in fibers from the Savannah College of Art and Design, brings a wealth of creativity to this exhibit. She’s not just an artist but also a teacher, sharing her knowledge of weaving and sewing at the Birmingham Bloomfield Art Center. Additionally, she serves as the studio manager for the Painting Department at Cranbrook. Her multifaceted background blends seamlessly into her artistic expression.
A Heartfelt Message
“All of my work tends to be about meditation and mindfulness,” shared Rachel, reflecting on her creative process. “I use art as a cathartic therapy to express my feelings and keep myself balanced while navigating life’s challenges.” This exhibit serves as an invitation for viewers to find their own center amid the chaos of the world.
Much of Rachel’s artwork is characterized by its black and white palette. “I choose these colors to eliminate distractions,” she explained. “If I do use color, it’s usually to convey a specific feeling.” The focus, she emphasizes, is more about the process of creation rather than just the final product.
Exhibit Features
One of the standout pieces in the exhibit is titled “Listening,” which Rachel describes as a portrayal of being in a room full of people, simply focusing on the sound of their breathing. Another piece, “Suspire,” captures the essence of heavy sighing during tough times. There’s also “Breath Weavings,” where she uses the loom to metaphorically illustrate the act of breathing. “The shafts move together, akin to how we inhale and exhale oxygen,” Rachel elaborated. Each piece tells a story, inviting viewers into her world of emotion and introspection.
Coming Full Circle
This exhibit marks Rachel’s first solo venture in Michigan, adding to her burgeoning portfolio. She will also be participating in the Fiber Fest group exhibit at the Lawrence Street Gallery in Ferndale later this month. Additionally, she’s on the cusp of arranging an art display for the High Holy Days at Congregation Shaarey Zedek in Southfield, intertwining her artistic work with her cultural roots.
A Passion for Fiber Arts
Brunhild’s journey into the world of fiber arts was influenced by her family, particularly through her mother, Karen Schurgin, an artist who paints ketubahs. “Both my mom and I share an interest in the arts,” Rachel shared. “I fell in love with weaving, and my understanding of contemporary art shifted, as I began to see stitching not just as an embellishment for clothing but as a powerful art form.”
This new perspective opened doors for Rachel, leading her to connect with Joann Kallio, the Woods Gallery coordinator, who helped bring the exhibit to life. “It’s exciting to finally showcase fiber art in such a lovely space,” Rachel said, clearly thrilled about this opportunity.
The Importance of Creative Expression
Rachel believes wholeheartedly in the power of art. “Art is a fantastic way to express who we are,” she remarked. “I encourage anyone interested to explore their own creative practice; you might discover something wonderful for your mental health.”
To connect with fellow artists, Rachel is involved in a Fiber Club in Detroit, which provides a platform for learning and sharing. “The field of fiber art is incredible,” she noted. “There’s so much room to explore and experiment with different mediums.”
Don’t Miss It!
So if you find yourself in Huntington Woods, take a moment to immerse yourself in Rachel Brunhild’s exhibit at the Huntington Woods Library. It’s not just a display; it’s a chance to find your own center, reflect, and appreciate the beauty of artistic expression. Remember, the exhibit will be available for viewing until October 26, and it’s definitely worth a visit!
