Tenley Shewmake
Renick, WV | Exhibiting Since 2022
I am inspired by Japanese Boro, the clothing and fabric used by peasants, merchants and artisans in Japan from Edo up to early Showa (17th – 19th c.) Boro exemplifies the value of ‘mottainai’ or ‘too good to waste’. Once an item was made, it would be maintained throughout the owner’s lifetime, and longer. Sewn together and patched over generations, family history was woven into the threads.
I use gifted, remnant and recycled fabric along with new to create garments that tell a story. May you wear them in good health.