The Bauhaus and Black Mountain College: A History of Art,Craft, and Textile Pedagogy

As part of a recent symposium at UCLA called Thinking Through Textiles:Future Pedagogies, I moderated a panel with three incredible speakers - Fritz Horstman from the Josef and Anni Albers Foundation, Michael Beggs who co-curated and co-authored the exhibit and publication Weaving at Black Mountain College, and artist and educator Christy Matson. We explored the pedagogies of the Bauhaus and Black Mountain College - which are intertwined with the teachings of Anni and Josef Albers. Core philosophies and curricula of both institutions were examined as well as their legacy and continued relevance in education today. It was such a great conversation. Here are brief snippets for your enjoyment . Fritz discussing Otti Berger and her touching board, Michael Beggs talking about Josef and Anni Albers’ arrival at Black Mountain, and Christy Matson sharing the importance of On Weaving by Anni Albers. You can read more about the symposium and listen to the full recordings HERE. The purpose of the symposium was to kick-off a regional focus on the role of textiles in contemporary education. Our intent is to foster on-going conversations and collaboration. I am so grateful for the efforts of co-conveners Lesley Roberts and Chandler McWilliams to make this all possible!

Photos below - top row, my panel. Bottom row, L to R - brainstorming what’s next, curator Syona Puliady touring the Fowler Museum, Michael, me and Fritz in front of one of my favorites in the Fowler collection - a work by El Anatsui.