INQ-177 | Fiber Arts and Culture

Topic Description:

Fiber Arts and Culture will explore the intersection of gender and fiber as it relates to issues of race, social class, individualism, religion, industrialization, oppression, and culture.  As we explore these topics, students will learn to knit and/or crochet and will make items for those in need (e.g., chemotherapy hats, scarves for the homeless, blankets for immigrants, breast prosthetics).  There are a variety of “craft for a cause” organizations that accept self-crafted items to support different groups of individuals in need. Additionally, students will gain practical experience in the processing of fiber from fleece to fabric and will explore in depth the silk industry, historically and currently, as we raise our own silk worms and process their cocoons into fiber that we may dye and knit into fabrics. 

Course Types Offered: On-Campus

Topic Approved: October 2024