Silk Contemporary Art

Based in Chicago, IL, contemporary artist Michael Thompson creates unique kites, collages and mixed media works assembled from material fragments of past and present collected in his...

Handmade Wool Artwork made by M. Dombrowsky. An abstract, minimalist work made of wool and wood. Each work is handcrafted, the wool dyed and spun by hand. Intricately wrapped, and t...

Based in Chicago, IL, contemporary artist Michael Thompson creates unique kites, collages and mixed media works assembled from material fragments of past and present collected in his...

Based in Chicago, IL, contemporary artist Michael Thompson creates unique kites, collages and mixed media works assembled from material fragments of past and present collected in his...

Based in Chicago, IL, contemporary artist Michael Thompson creates unique kites, collages and mixed media works assembled from material fragments of past and present collected in his...

Jean-Michel Folon, born March 1, 1934 in Uccle in Belgium and died October 20, 2005 in Monaco, is a Belgian watercolorist, painter, engraver and sculptor. He worked on many materials...

Grayson Perry’s *Scale* at the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) is a striking exploration of the intersection between art, society, and the aspirations of emerging artists. Perry, known for his provocative and thought-provoking works, utilizes the concept of a silk scarf as both a functional item and a metaphorical guide. This scarf serves not only as a visual piece but also as a social and cultural map, designed to assist aspiring artists in navigating the challenging landscape of the art world. The work reflects Perry’s unique ability to blend personal narrative with broader cultural commentary, encouraging dialogue about the challenges and triumphs faced by those striving for recognition in the arts. The text accompanying the silk scarf reveals its historical significance, referencing World War II when pilots were provided with silk maps for escape in enemy territory. Perry draws a parallel between this notion of survival and the struggles faced by contemporary artists. He emphasizes that the art world can often feel like a hostile environment, filled with obstacles that must be overcome. The scarf represents a navigational tool for these artists, offering guidance through a landscape populated by influential figures and established norms. By presenting the journeys of both renowned artists and the paths aspiring creators might take, Perry crafts a narrative that resonates deeply with anyone familiar with the pressures of artistic validation. Perry’s choice of silk as the medium further enhances the piece’s thematic richness. Silk, with its connotations of luxury and fragility, reflects the delicate balance that artists must maintain between their personal vision and the expectations of the establishment. The inclusion of notable artists who have paved the way for others along the route serves to inspire and motivate aspiring creators. By using this metaphorical scarf, Perry invites viewers to consider the complexities of artistic identity and the ongoing quest for acceptance, making *Scale* a powerful commentary on the nature of success and the shared experiences within the artistic community. The artwork details a fictional artist’s journey from birth to success, naming the artists, experiences and influences they encounter along the way. The text of this journey reads: Start here, Walt Disney, Play, Vincent Van Gogh, Rolf Harris, John Constable, Anish Kapoor, Louise Bourgeois, Inspirational Teacher, Rachel Whiteread, Picasso, Rene Magritte, Edward Hopper, Teenage Pupation, David Hockney, Jackson Pollock, Art School, Trainee Bohemians, Marcel Duchamp, Banksy, Beryl Cook, Jack Vettriano, Sex, Drugs & Rock & Roll, Francis Bacon, Bridget Riley, Gilbert & George, Art Dealer, Hirst, Money Celebrity Fashion Drugs, Networking, Carl Andre, Choices, Takahashi Murakami...

Based in Chicago, IL, contemporary artist Michael Thompson creates unique kites, collages and mixed media works assembled from material fragments of past and present collected in his...

Hand-knotted tapestry after design Wassily Kandinsky, second half of the 20th century. This is a beautiful work of art by a master artist is woven in silk on cotton, with a dense pile, is made by Carpet Weaver's Association. This hand woven tapestry is an interpretation of Kandinsky’s 1920...

Chicago-based artist Michael Thompson creates unique kites crafted from split bamboo frames covered with stretched muslin and a collage of vintage Asian ephemera—including fragments of fabric, scrolls, drawings, and books collected during his travels. This kite entitled "Crane" draws its title from the quiet painting in the lower left corner of a white crane perched on the edge of a water pail. The kite is anchored by a large panel of floral silk brocade, darkened by inky pigments that drip downwards and break up the orderly design. A panel of rice paper adds bright blue color and washes of cool watercolors unite disparate fragments with irregular motion. Instructional calligraphy paintings and architectural blueprints...

Chicago-based artist Michael Thompson creates unique kites crafted from split bamboo frames covered with stretched muslin and a collage of vintage Asian ephemera—including fragments ...

Chicago-based artist Michael Thompson creates unique kites crafted from split bamboo frames covered with stretched muslin and a collage of vintage Asian ephemera - including fragments of fabric, scrolls, drawings, and books collected during his travels. In this kite entitled "Joie de Vivre," Thompson creates a delicate composition from antique wallpaper...