GoossensDesigns

Diane Goossens

NUNO FELTING

I came to felt making in 2011 and have had the privilege of learning from national and international felt-makers. I am part of the Art Felt Collaborative, an award-winning group of five felt makers who exhibit individually and collectively through online publications, shows and gallery installations.

I’ve always been interested in clothing that is unique ... and being able to create one-of-a kind, handcrafted garments through nuno felting addresses that personal desire. I often start my projects with recycled saris from India. These saris are too fragile to use on their own and definitely reflect the imprint of their previous owner’s life – burn holes, stains and rips. The nuno felting process gives them new life, laminating merino fibers with these 'previously loved' saris to create a new, finely pebbled fabric that can be made into wearable art. The beauty of these creations is further enhanced with a unique lining designed by my sister, Carol.

As reflected in my Jacket & Bolero Series, this sisterly collaboration brings a lot of joy to my artistic practice, while striving to provide women with unique clothing alternatives ... worthy of their creative, self-expression.

Hope you enjoy the series!