Sue Willingham – Artist Statement
My interest in handweaving began in 1995 when her daughter became a weaver. Her enthusiasm was contagious! She weaves on Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia, and I weave on Vashon Island, Washington – a continent apart but we’re always in touch and sharing ideas and teach together in my studio every winter.
Since I like variety, I experiment with different fibers including bamboo, cotton, tencel, wool and rayon chenille. Handling the yarn and watching textures appear as I weave gives me endless hours of enjoyment. I weave items to wear and to use in the home – scarves, shawls, towels, placemats, pillow covers, blankets and more. My woven items are available primarily in my studio during the VIVA studio tour in December and at the Seattle Weavers’ Guild annual sale in late October.
Although I love to weave, I especially enjoy teaching weavers in my studio on Vashon and watching the community of weavers grow, especially here on Vashon.
Sue’s works can be seen at the Willingham Weavery, stop #18 on the 2022 VIVA Holiday Art Studio Tour, Dec 3-4 & 10-11, Saturdays and Sundays, from 10 am – 4 pm. For more information on the free, self-guided tour and an interactive map, click here.
