Wendy Franklin is enthusiastically, relentlessly and joyfully pushing the bounds of traditional fiber work
The mixed media series begin with a textural underpainting, then hand-dyed silk is layered and wrapped over the entire canvas, adhered with medium and allowed to dry. Next, additional elements and markings are made on top of the silk and the entire piece is sealed. The sheerness and luminosity of the silk allows the underpainting to show through, creating a depth that is not found in traditional paintings.
Her wool and silk series, using nuno felting techniques, begin with hand dyed silk, placed over a sheer layer of merino wool. Next the silk is layered with additional wool, building color, texture and composition. When the layout is complete it is sprayed down with soapy water and pressure is applied, rubbing, rolling and throwing the fibers until they merge into a whole cloth. Finally, it is mounted on specially designed panels or canvas and framed if desired.
Wendy resides in Carmel, IN, spending her days (and many late nights) in her sunny, perfectly messy studio in downtown Indianapolis in the Historic Stutz Building. Despite being perpetually covered in wool, addicted to lip gloss and smelling occasionally like a damp sheep, she is quickly becoming well known in the contemporary fiber world for her innovative use of materials paired with strong color and design.