An Application of Hemp as Fiber Material in Art Applications from Past to Present: A Brief Artist Perspective
Kirstin A. Dunlap
College of Visual and Performing Arts- Comstock art Facility, Syracuse University, 1075 Comstock Ave, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA.
Klaus Dölle *
Department of Chemical Engineering, College of Environmental Science and Forestry (ESF), State University of New York (SUNY), One Forestry Drive, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Hemp has been a longstanding material choice for textile creations. As far back as early Chinese civilizations humans have been using hemp for items including paper, clothing, rope, and various other household items. As trading moved westward, more civilizations began to pick up on cultivating hemp for textile uses. This was easily done due to the simplistic growing conditions necessary for hemp. Items made from processed hemp have since been found and collected from all over the globe and are now preserved in history and art museums. These items began getting recognition by art communities in more recent years. After World War II fiber art became a recognized art medium instead of its previous classification of utilitarian craftwork. Since then, fiber art has flourished, and it is celebrated in art museums and similar works worldwide. Now, old and new items and textiles utilizing hemp are preserved through art museums and collections.
Keywords: Art history, fiber art, handmade papermaking, hemp fiber, historic artifacts