From her childhood, Martha Christian knew she would be an artist. After earning her BFA from Syracuse University, she was an illustrator for Hallmark Cards. There, another artist introduced her to the loom and weaving. She spent several years experimenting with a variety of handweaving techniques before she found that her interests in weaving and painting could be merged in tapestry.  Martha returned to college for study of that technique, and in 1989 she received and MFA specializing in tapestry from the Memphis College of Art.

Although woven one at a time, Martha's designs fall into series. Two recent themes are map-like geographic shapes and formal geometric designs. Always emphasizing composition and texture, her tapestries feature hand-spun and hand-dyed wool for the unique surface which tapestry offers. The color is symbolic and always aims for harmony. Projects which are large-scale are especially interesting for her; Martha's loom will accommodate eighty (80) inches of width and unlimited length.

The process of simplifying a complicated idea, first by researching, then culling to the essence, is one aspect of tapestry that appeals to Martha. She uses shape, color, composition, and texture to make a tangible starting place for the viewer's own interpretation.

Martha Christian has exhibited tapestries in many juried shows at galleries, universities, and other cultural centers. One large tapestry was included in the "Art of Tennessee" exhibition and accompanying book at the Frist Center for the Visual Arts in 2004. She has had several solo exhibitions and has done some large-scale commissions. She has tapestries in the collections of Auto Zone, TVA, the University of Memphis, churches, and numerous private collections.
 

616 Magnolia Lane
Nashville, TN 37211-7431

 

(615) 831-0181
 

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