Today, we’d like to introduce you to Jeanne Akita.
Hi Jeanne, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My journey into fiber art began with a lifelong passion for creativity and a deep appreciation for the natural world. Growing up, I was surrounded by art and encouraged to explore various creative mediums. My initial artistic endeavors included oil painting and drawing, where I developed a keen eye for detail and a profound understanding of textures and colors.
My fascination with fiber art was sparked when I attended a workshop on felting, an ancient technique that intrigued me with its potential for creating intricate, tactile pieces. Eager to learn more, I delved into the craft, experimenting with different fibers and methods. I was particularly drawn to the process of transforming raw materials into sculptural forms, which allowed me to combine my skills in painting and drawing with a new, tactile medium.
My early experiments quickly evolved into a serious pursuit. I began creating unique, sculptural fiber art pieces that fused my artistic vision with the traditional felting technique. Inspired by the mesmerizing beauty of nature’s shapes and textures and influenced by classical art, I developed a distinctive style that set my work apart.
Each one-of-a-kind piece I create is meticulously crafted using hand agitation, soap, water, and hand-selected sustainable loose fibers such as sheep wool, silk cocoons, flax, and raw lamb fleece from small local farms. I scrupulously layer and shape the fibers, creating rich textures and patterns. To add color and depth, I use the shibori dye method with non-toxic or plant-based dyes and then finalize the designs by hand painting with a brush.
I am deeply committed to sustainability, focusing on the micro details and textures to express my artistic concepts while ensuring that my processes and materials are eco-friendly. I view fiber felting as a fusion of fine art and craft, blending elements of sculpture and painting to offer unlimited possibilities for artistic expression.
My dedication and unique approach have earned me numerous accolades at art festivals, including:
Best in Show Fiber at Kimball Arts Festival (2018, 2019)
Best of Show Fiber at Sun Valley Arts & Crafts Festival (2021)
Best of Show at Utah Arts Festival (2021)
Award of Merit/Fiber at La Quinta Art Celebration (2021)
Museum of Fine Art Houston Curatorial Award for Excellence and Best in Show 3rd place at Bayou City Art Festival (2022)
Merit Award at Columbus Art Festival (2022)
First Place at Saint Louis Art Fair (2022)
My work has been featured in art magazines such as Picton, Surreal, Moevir, Vigour, Malvie, Edith, Shuba, MyLittleBird, and Ornament, as well as in press and TV outlets like the Salt Lake Tribune, KRCL Radioactive, and Good Morning Texas. I received the Fiber Art Now “Felt: Fiber Transformed” Award in 2021. I continue to push the boundaries of fiber art, exploring new techniques and materials while mentoring aspiring artists and contributing to the vibrant art community.
Let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what challenges have you had to overcome?
My journey in fiber art has not always been smooth. It has been marked by various challenges and struggles along the way. When I first began exploring fiber art, I encountered a steep learning curve. Mastering the ancient technique of felting required patience and persistence.
I spent countless hours experimenting with different fibers, methods, and tools, sometimes facing frustration when pieces did not turn out as expected. Each failure was a learning opportunity, pushing me to refine my skills and deepen my understanding of the technique. This journey involved continuous learning and evolving as an artist. I experimented with different approaches and gradually developed a distinctive style, blending elements of sculpture and painting into my fiber art.
Balancing art and sustainability posed additional challenges. I am deeply committed to using eco-friendly materials, which requires extensive research and building relationships with local suppliers to source sustainable loose fibers. Ensuring that my dyes were non-toxic and plant-based added another layer of complexity to my process. This commitment often meant higher costs and more time spent on preparation, but it was essential for me to create art that aligned with my values and respected the environment.
Despite these challenges, my resilience and dedication have driven my success. I view each obstacle as an opportunity for growth and continue to push the boundaries of fiber art, inspiring others with my innovative and sustainable approach.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a fiber artist specializing in creating sculptural fiber art that blends my artistic vision with ancient felting techniques.
My work involves transforming sustainable loose fibers like sheep wool, silk cocoons, flax, and raw lamb’s fleece into intricate, three-dimensional pieces. I meticulously craft each unique piece using hand agitation, soap, and water, layering and shaping the fibers to create rich textures and patterns. To add color and depth, I use the shibori dye method with non-toxic or plant-based dyes and finalize the designs by hand painting with a brush.
I am known for my distinctive style that draws inspiration from the mesmerizing beauty of nature’s shapes and textures, influenced by classical art. My background in oil painting and drawing has greatly influenced my approach to fiber art, allowing me to blend elements of sculpture and painting in my work.
What I am most proud of is my commitment to sustainability and the meticulous attention to detail in my work. Every piece I create is not only a work of art but also a statement about the importance of eco-friendly practices in the art world. By using sustainable materials and non-toxic dyes, I strive to minimize my environmental impact while producing beautiful, thought-provoking art.
What sets me apart from others is my ability to integrate fine art and craft, creating fiber sculptures that are both visually stunning and environmentally conscious.
My work has been recognized with numerous accolades at prestigious art festivals and has been featured in various art magazines and media outlets. This recognition affirms my belief in the importance of innovation and sustainability in art, and it motivates me to continue pushing the boundaries of what fiber art can achieve.
Can you talk to us about happiness and what makes you happy?
What makes me happiest is the process of creating art. There is something incredibly fulfilling about transforming raw materials into intricate, beautiful pieces.
The tactile experience of working with fibers, the meditative rhythm of felting, and the excitement of seeing a piece come together all bring me immense joy. Creating art allows me to express myself and connect with others on a deep, emotional level.
Another source of happiness for me is nature. Being outdoors, surrounded by the natural world, inspires my work and rejuvenates my spirit. The shapes, colors, and textures I encounter in nature are a constant source of inspiration, and spending time outside helps me feel connected to something larger than myself.
I also find great joy in sharing my art with others. Whether it’s through exhibitions, art festivals, or social media, the opportunity to connect with people who appreciate my work is incredibly rewarding. Hearing how my art has touched someone’s life or inspired them in some way is a powerful reminder of why I do what I do.
Lastly, mentoring aspiring artists brings me happiness. Helping others discover their passion for fiber art and watching them grow as artists is a deeply gratifying experience. It allows me to give back to the artistic community that has supported me throughout my journey and ensures that the tradition of fiber art continues to thrive.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.illulab.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/illusionslab/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/illulab
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRA0-lp_S0fiFRoIO1KCfLg?view_as=subscriber
