CONGRATULATIONS IACA CYCLE #4
MINI-GRANT RECIPIENT, TYRA SHACKLEFORD!
Copyright © Tyra Shackleford
Congratulations to Tyra Shackleford on a successful grant application!
The following are excerpts from her proposal:
I am a Chickasaw textiles artist. I use fingerweaving, twining, and sprang to create my art. These are ancient techniques my people used before European contact. I learned this traditional art as a child and have practiced it for 20 years.
My mission is to preserve traditional weaving techniques so they are not lost, and to educate about Chickasaw culture through my art. Therefore, I create contemporary pieces that, while they reflect my cultural heritage, are new and innovative through shape, form, and design. I am inspired by the works of my ancestors, by the stories of my people, and by our unique identity as a people.
All of my weavings are created entirely by hand, without the use of a loom. I use both traditional and contemporary fibers and yarns to create my works. I participate in art shows and markets, exhibitions, and provide lectures, hands-on workshops, and presentations. Teaching my craft goes hand in hand with my mission to preserve these traditional techniques. I hope that someone is inspired by what I have created and continues this tradition in the future.
In June and July of 2018, I have an exhibition at the Artesian Gallery in Sulphur, OK. During that time, I will provide a hands-on workshop. This grant award would contribute to the supplies needed for this workshop. Each student will be taught the sprang technique and receive a frame and yarn.