Paula Bryan

Artist Statement

In nature, there is always a function for appearances, whether for camouflage, warmth, sexual attraction or propagation of the species. In observing organic forms, I am attracted to shape and volume, texture and color, rhythms of pattern and particularly surface contrast. These characteristics, and their ever-changing forms through growth and decay, provide inspiration for the creation of single- and multi-layered textiles. My studies of organic forms, whether from observation in nature, botanical drawings or photographs, suggest directions for the selection of raw materials and composition.

Like the symbiotic relationship between algae and fungi that together comprise lichens, the surface textures of many of my textiles are the result of the interaction of fibers with dissimilar properties. Through the development of small samples in which layers are interwoven or stitched together, I investigate the interactions of fibers and materials with diverse physical properties, some of which become apparent only with additional finishing processes. Some of these sample textiles are then developed on a larger scale for interior or apparel applications.

Biography

Paula Bryan studied textile design at the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), receiving an MFA degree in 2002. At RISD, she was the recipient of a prestigious Graduate Award of Excellence in 2001, awarded to seven of 80 applicants in a multi-disciplinary competition, and had a Teaching Assistantship in woven textile design. Prior to this dramatic career shift, she worked in international health and development for two decades, primarily as a Foreign Service Officer with the U. S. Agency for International Development.

Paula has dabbled in textiles since the age of five, when she began to weave baskets, bracelets and potholders. Prior to enrolling in an MFA program, she took courses at the Corcoran School of Art and Design, Philadelphia College of Textiles (now Philadelphia University), and the Springwater Fiber Workshop. She has an MPH degree from the University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, and a BA degree from The Johns Hopkins University.

Paula’s work is available at Julie Artisans’ Gallery in New York City.