My time as artist-in-residence with Green Mountain Linen is coming to a close and this year’s East Barnard Linen Fair was a chance for our most recent cohort of flax and indigo artists to exhibit the work we developed together. My residency project with Robin and GML was two-fold. I made my own work and researched methods of growing small flax patches in my own community here in Barre and led two groups of artists to understand applications of the fructose indigo vat. The Linen Fair is our annual gathering to exhibit the work of the residency.

Nothing Wasted, Nothing Lost #1
Handwoven Linen and Indigo

This year’s research included trip to Northern Ireland, England and Belgium, visiting flax-producing regions and connecting with flax-focused artists. I visited with Simon and Ann Cooper, who have been farming since before I could walk. After a lifetime of growing food and fiber, Simon and Ann are researching maritime flax crafts. We took a deep dive into canvas and sailcloth, in support of their vision to revive plastics-free fishing in their region. Their handmade boats and fishing basketry are amazing.

Simon looking out at the river, in his Stroud studio.

In addition to making objects, the pair have spent decades studying historic rural flax production tools to develop homestead-scale tools for contemporary makers. You can see me teaching Eve Schaub how to use Simon’s equipment in her weekly update to the “Growing A Dress” project here.

During my trip, I also reconnected with Belgian artist Germana Tack, the first GML artist-in-residence. Germana operates a studio and guesthouse in Kortrijk, Belgium just a short walk from the Texture Museum. While traditionally trained as a weaver and textile artist, she pivoted to working sculpturally and has developed a method for working with aggregated tow flax akin to felting. We visited the atelier where she supports outsider textile artists in bookmaking and fashion projects and chatted about materials play and experiments we’re each excited to pursue.

Next year, Green Mountain Linen will bring in a new artist-in-residence to focus on the fine art applications of flax and linen canvas and I’ll continue teaching indigo and flax skills across New England. I’m grateful to Robin and GML for the deep dive into flax production and will be continuing to exhibit my this work in Central Vermont through the winter. Check out the GML website for their upcoming events and 2027 artist announcement. I’ll be announcing my 2027 exhibitions later in the fall.