The Art Institute Of Chicago Presents Inspiring "Threaded Visions" Exhibit

From left: James Bassler’s “A Weaving” (2012) and María Dávila’s and Eduardo Portillo’s “White Dwarf” (2016) are highlights in Threaded Visions: Contemporary Weavings from the Collection.

One of the oldest crafts in history, dating back at least 12,000 years, weaving is a most familiar practice—but behind it is an intricate and refined art form that continues to evolve. In the Art Institute’s latest exhibition, Threaded Visions: Contemporary Weavings from the Collection, 15 works from the museum’s permanent collection by 13 celebrated artists across the globe explore the variety of compositions and images that the ancient technique can create.

Of the featured works are three new acquisitions, including the densely detailed “White Dwarf ” by María Dávila and Eduardo Portillo of Venezuela.“It’s a sparkling mosaic of color and texture, and I’m in awe of their ability to take contrasting materials— shining metal threads and silk versus rough palm fiber—and make them sing together,” Says Melinda Watt, Chair and Christa C. Mayer thurman Curator of Textiles. “Their combination of poetic vision and technical prowess are unique, and they are currently underrepresented in museum collections… This exhibit serves as a reminder that while woven fabrics are ubiquitous in daily life, the process of weaving is also fertile ground for artistic expression. It fosters an appreciation for the complexities involved in the creative process and the dedication to their practice that each artist has made.” Through Aug. 26, 159 E. Monroe St.