Denim jackets, shirts, jeans and vests will become wearable works of art when the Brownwood Art Association opens its fifth annual Fiber and Textile Arts show, “Embellish!,” on Thursday, Sept. 3, at the Art Center in Downtown Brownwood.
The public opening is scheduled from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Art Center, 215 Fisk Ave. The evening’s Style Show begins at 5:30 p.m., giving local attendees a chance to see decorated denim pieces modeled by friends and neighbors.
From basic denim to statement pieces
This year’s theme centers on the idea of making familiar clothing more attractive through decorative details. Organizers say the exhibit will feature denim transformed with lace, beads, trim, ruffles, stitching, intricate weaves, hand-drawn art and other creative additions.
Susan Scott Smith, the show’s lead coordinator, described the concept as taking art “off the walls and down the runway.” The exhibit focuses on both traditional and newer techniques for turning an everyday garment into something marked by creativity, glamour and drama.
Although denim is the central feature, the show will include a broad selection of other fiber and textile work. Visitors can expect hand-stitched and hand-painted wall hangings, felted wool figures, ceramics, colorful rope bowls, children’s clothing, crocheted and knitted jewelry, and other wearable pieces.
Style Show, raffle and prizes
The opening will also include a raffle drawing for a BAAFTA wall hanging commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States of America. Door prizes will be available as well, but attendees must be present to win.
Organizers are encouraging guests to stay for the full evening of art, fashion and activities. The show’s organizers say the work reflects the range of talent among the participating artists.
About the Brownwood Art Association
The Brownwood Art Association is a nonprofit organization founded in 1927 and will mark its 100th anniversary next year. Its Art Center at 215 Fisk Ave. serves as the hub for the association’s activities and exhibits.
In addition to the Fiber and Textile Arts group, the association includes traditional representational art, photography, children’s and youth programs, People Painters, creative writing and a Drum Circle.
Outside the opening event, the Art Center is open Tuesday through Friday from 2 to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. For information about “Embellish!” and other Art Center activities, call 325-641-2916 or visit brownwoodart.org.