During her fellowship, Jess sourced fleece from seven female farmers in New York state, many of which are raising endangered and heritage breeds of sheep. Using ancient felting techniques, Jess pieced together the fleece into one large patchwork piece. She also created a digital “map” to accompany the artwork allowing viewers to scroll over each section and learn more about the breeds and farms the fiber came from. Finally, Jess hosted a workshop where she shared her process and techniques for felting wool.
BIOGRAPHY
Jess Ludwicki is a farmer and fiber artist from Brooklyn, New York. She resides on a working farm in the Catskills where she raises sheep for wool and runs a fiber studio dedicated to her love for animals and the ancient art of felt making.
Jess is sought after by interior designers and has been commissioned to produce works for both private residencies as well as hotels – most recently Wild Flower Farms, An Auburge Resorts Collection.
Her work has been exhibited in Bushel Collective, VERSE Work / Shop, and other galleries in recent years. Her fellowship piece was shown at the NY Sheep & Wool Festival which hosts 30K visitors over the 2 day event.
A strong, self-taught, one-woman show, Jess is inspired by nature and celebrates wool as a fiber with both a rich history and infinite potential.
https://www.instagram.com/lovelambny
Photo credits: Photos by Jill Bornand
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New York State Rural & Traditional Arts Fellowship 