Tradition in evolution.

Catch by Donna Kallner
Our ancient ancestors found smart, resourceful ways to use whatever materials were available to produce functional objects that were also beautiful and meaningful. The inspiration for this piece came from their traditional stitched bark vessels. And while I used contemporary digital imaging and surface design techniques, I also incorporated looping stitches that haven't changed much in thousands of years. Netting, a knotted form of looping, is still one of the most efficient ways to catch fish. Good ideas can be as elusive as fish darting in a pond, so I stitched a net to help collect inspirations.

Full of Ideas by Donna Kallner
The vessel Catch incorporates a knotted form of looping called netting to catch ideas, which can be as slippery as fish. That piece led to this one, which explores the concept of the mind as a vessel with ideas swirling around.

The fish in this piece are stitched from looping variations that in other contexts might be called "needle lace." The structure is the same as that used to make bags, nets, snares and other items. 

Looping Journal by Donna Kallner
Looping has been around more than 28,000 years, and looping traditions are found on six of the seven continents. So why haven't you heard of it before? Maybe because there are now faster ways to make things. But there's nothing quite like this timeless technique. Each stitch connects with what came before and what will come later. I like the stability of a structure that won't unravel. I like the reminder that time is more than a commodity.

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