Today we’d like to introduce you to Denise M. Mandel.
Hi Denise, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, let’s briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
As early as I can remember, people have encouraged my artistic abilities. It has been in various directions: dance choreography, figure drawing, decorating, hairstyling, etc. But it was when I was accepted at KCAI later in life that the direction was narrowed down. Majoring in Fiber, I dabbled in surface design, felting, dyeing, and weaving. Never before in my life had I seen a loom. Upon receiving my BFA, I pilgrimaged to Santa Fe, NM, and landed a job weaving for a well-known handwoven garment shop on Canyon Rd. There, I developed my skills with woven designs and decided to branch out independently. I bought the first loom and set up a studio in an adobe home outside Santa Fe. I began a handwoven garment business there, serving locals and clients coast to coast. At the same time, a close friend in St.Louis, Mo. (where I grew up) asked me to create a tapestry installation for his home. My whole direction shifted from garments to “one-of-a-kind” tapestry/rug art. I instantly loved the feeling of the warp as an open canvas for a more painterly approach to weaving. So, I returned to my hometown in Spanish Lake, MO. I joined the Weavers’ Guild of St.Louis and had the opportunity to meet Barb Simon, the weaving instructor at the non-profit Craft Alliance. With a reasonably accomplished resume’, she also strongly proposed joining CA as a weaving instructor. My first reaction was, “No way, me an instructor!” But as a result, I’ve been there for 30+ years, playing a significant role in my life! At the same time, a whirlwind of events occurred.
I acquired more looms, developing a home studio with a loom for every room commissioned by the Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis for 4 liturgical season tapestries. The final one was the “Papal Coat of Arms” for Pope John Paul II, now a permanent memorial. Weavings began appearing in local galleries and self-pop-up shows around the region. I was presently planning a 2024 exhibit with Angad Art Hotel. I will continue directing future fiber artists in their pursuit of finding themselves in the weaving world and coming home to that “Peace of Mind” behind my looms! Presently, woven art can be viewed at Brew Tulum. There is a new coffee shop in the Maker’s District.
You wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle-free, but so far, would you say the journey has been smooth?
We are talking about a 40-year career as an artist/weaver. Initially, it was searching for a location with a handwoven audience. During the ’80s, after KCAI, the Midwest didn’t provide what I sought. So thus, the move to NM. I financially struggled to make ends meet, but looking back. It was one of the best times of my life. I enhanced my survival skills and lived in an adobe house on the prairie. With no shower or other means of bath facilities, I used an outhouse and joined a local health club for the shower. I commuted by bike. A kettle stove provided the heat, but all the while, I had my loom. I walked the arroyo during weaving breaks and got a good grip on baking bread; later, moving back to St Louis, I faced job hunting in my field again. Took jobs with other weavers warping their looms. There are more glamorous sides to weaving. Regarding the instructional side of my career, I can’t say enough about how it has enriched my life. I met so many amazing people along the way. The satisfaction of giving yourself to further others’ artistry is gratifying.
Thanks for sharing that. You could tell us more about your work.
Weaving spans a large area of styles. My forte’ is the weft-face weave; Southwest indigenous and Hispanic weaving influenced my designs greatly. Produce rugs/tapestry pieces of various sizes in a home studio annually. I have counter-balance, counter-march, Jack, and frame looms from which I work. My choice of yarns can be locally sourced, purchased online, or found on trips in the US and abroad. In the past and recent years, I have shown every 4 years at self-created pop-up venues or galleries. It takes that long to build up an inventory after each one. All have attracted an array of clientele from all over, presently producing inventory for 2024.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those just starting.
If I were to sit down with my child and give advice on starting a career in the arts, I probably would say, “Stop right there; you’ll make no money!” But then, never being married or having children, I speak to my students (whom I consider my kids). Generally, words of wisdom are, “If you think you don’t have an artistic bone in your body, think again; you do!” Everyone has it; it just needs to be encouraged more. Nothing is more satisfying than putting your heart and mind into an artistic process. Be it what you envision or not, it’s an expression of yourself. You need to stay focused and pursue it further. In my case, I’m continually grateful for all those who saw my potential. I will always appreciate their encouraging words.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.denisemmandel.com
Image Credits
Swan Photo
