Five Questions Exhibition Edition with Kelly Marshall

Minneapolis-based weaver and ACC show artist Kelly Marshall is bringing a jolt of warmth and color to the long Minnesota winter with an exhibition of richly colorful, handwoven wall hangings in the ACC Library. On the eve of her exhibition, which will run through the end of February, we checked in with her to learn more about her inspiration and artistic practice.

What do you make?
I make custom-designed textiles for interiors. I love to make custom-designed textiles.

Who and what inspires you?
I am inspired by color and pattern, whether I see it in nature or other people's art work. Two artists that continue to inspire me are Kafe Fassett and Natalie Chanin.

How did you first become engaged with craft?
I bought the I Taught Myself to Knit book. I have also taken many classes in different kinds of crafts.

Describe your dream studio…
I work in my dream studio. It's 2,500 square feet with beautiful east sunlight exposure, clean hardwood floors, shelves full of colorful yarns, four large hardwood looms, and a large showroom filled with textiles. I'm living the dream.

What does craft mean to you?
Weaving is such an ancient craft, I often feel humbled by its endless potential. Craft is taking raw materials and applying a technique, which results in a desired body that is beautiful and/or functional.

Library bonus question: What’s your favorite/most-read art or craft book in your personal collection? 
Glorious Knits by Kafe Fassett and Alabama Stitch Book by Natalie Chanin, but considering I’ve had it since I was 12 - the I Taught Myself to Knit book is really well used.

Five Questions is a brief Q&A about books and craft, with people who love and use the American Craft Council Library.