Weavings with a feel
That is undoubtely a description of Marianne Kemp s unique hand woven horsehair pieces. An artisan who creates from experimentation with her materials. Weaving new surfaces that are different, not to be reconised as the conventional weaving. Marianne developes her own techniques in the weaving process. Using small bunches of horsehair, interwoven with linen or cotton, she creates exclusive fabrics in divers colours and surface textures. The horsehair is sourced from live horses overseas, mainly from the Far East.In the weaving process she manipulates the bunches through knotting, curling and looping. Because the horsehair has various characteristics qualities like it s shine, texture and length, each final weaving demonstrates an individual and exciting design. Shiny and smooth, organic and wild, flexible and stiff. Her inspiration derives from everything that surrounds her: City streets, fashion, architecture as well as nature. Translating found patterns and textures into woven textiles, creating a new surface pattern. Like many craftsmen, the element of play is also crucial in shaping her ideas towards creating new work. One of the ways of working is simply to sit in front of the loom and let the materials themselves direct the process. Travelling is another source of inspiration: trips to Mexico and Africa have generated an interest in traditional art and design. It is her intention to incorporate such world wide weaving traditions with her own creative palette.
All weavings are made-in-house and can be applied to wall panels, lighting, room dividers and window hangings. She also makes installations for exhibitions.
Woven upholstery fabric is also available as the Marianne Kemp range, mechanically woven at John Boyd Textiles, UK.
Marianne s pieces are a balance between textile & contemporary art, they attrack the attention from architects and designers like, Zaha Hadid, Foster + Partners and DKNY.
