The Artwork of Tanja Boudal

In conjunction with the “Forced to Flee” exhibit, there’s also a presentation of artwork by Tanja Boudal and it’s VERY interesting.

The majority of the pieces on display are like those shown here. As I understand it, she finds media pictures showing women in the midst of struggles and prints them on to fabric. She then alters one of the women using white fabric and black stitching. It’s a very striking effect.

One wall featured these pieces mounted perpendicular to the wall. This gives an interesting perspective and also makes a visually intriguing presentation.

This is the back side of the piece shown above.

Most fascinating, however, are the pieces made with a technique Boukal calls shadow knitting.

This one is of an Indian activist named Phoolan Devi. VERY subtle, right?

Now, check out this detail shot of the eyes. Invisible, I’d say.

But, look what happens when you view the piece from the side.

And here’s another, featuring Sarah-Ginaite.

I have no idea how she does this! I need to go back and see these pieces again.

You can see them, too, through August 24th in Melbourne, FL. They’re at the Ruth Funk Center for Textile Arts, which is always free. Enjoy!

Ellen Lindner