Must See: Fabric Workshop and Museum

Storefront @ The New Temporary Contemporary, Fabric Workshop and Museum

I was so excited that this year’s ISTE Conference (an annual conference I attend with Sweat Equity Education, whom I also work for) was held in Philadelphia because not only is it my hometown but the Convention Center is directly across the street from the Fabric Workshop and Museum! So…I was lucky enough to run across the street during a break and wander through the beautifully renovated galleries and store.

I was directed up one flight of emergency exit stairs to check out the first exhibit Close at Hand: Philadelphia Artists from the Permanent Collection which exhibited an incredible mixture of old and new textile craft. I was, and still am, in love with Edna W. Andrade’s Maze print!

Next I headed over to The New Temporary Contemporary building to watch Fighting Kissing Dancing, a seven film sequence exploring the three themed title. Now I’m not one to read all the museum signs, I am usually just too excited to see everything and therefore sat down not knowing what to expect. The first film was so interesting in approach that my jaw was hanging open for the entire length. Just go see it (if you can).

The Fabric Workshop and Museum has been a source of inspiration for me ever since I was introduced to it during my undergraduate studies at The University of the Arts. It is even more impressive now that I have formal training in textile design. If you are in Philly my suggestion is to stop by…Oh and while you’re in that neighborhood stop by Reading Terminal Market to eat some super fresh Amish food from Lancaster County, Pa.