Bio: Mary Erickson is a fiber artist living on the Mesabi Iron Range with an interest in how landscape and culture influence our lives.  Scandinavian weaving has long been an interest and she has traveled to several Nordic countries to study traditional methods of weaving.  

Her weavings are on public display at the Essentia Health Virginia Building, the Minnesota North College at the Mesabi Range Virginia Campus and also at the Eveleth Campus.  Solo exhibits of her work have been held at the First Stage Gallery, Lyric Center for the Arts in Virginia, MN and her work has been included in many group exhibits.

Mary holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Art Education from Bemidji State University and a Master of Art Degree from the University of Wisconsin, Superior.

Description: The first time I saw Frida Hansen’s weavings was at the Kunstindustrimuseet in Oslo. I was struck by their beauty!  When I asked for more information about her, the book Frida Hansen Europeeren i norsk vevkunst was suggested.  Over the years I have treasured the book with the wonderful images of her weavings, but had no idea how they were woven.

I was happy when I learned that Robbie LaFleur studied Frida’s work and was teaching classes on how to weave this open warp transparency technique.   I feel very fortunate to learn from her.

Why Poppies? Several years ago I photographed and drew sketches of poppies growing in my garden which I intended to one day use for a weaving.  Now was the time.  I wove these poppies based on the beauty in nature.  But like so many things we create, our ideas can go deeper and give more meaning.  When I see poppies I always remember my mother saying that she loved poppies every time she saw them. 

About the Scandinavian Weavers Study Group: Living in Northern Minnesota, the Zoom link to the Scandinavian Weavers Study Group enables me to connect with a wonderful organization of weavers who are always looking forward to new learning, projects and goals. I feel very lucky to be a part of this group of talented weavers and also for the opportunity to display my work in this exhibit.

vember@mchsi.com