Masterful rug hooking - an unusually beautiful and textural exhibit of amazing folk art by Arline Keeling, and her friends (all local hookers) is on display during the month of March at Artists and Heirlooms, 115 Historic 25th Street in Ogden. The exhibit includes 25+ Hand-Hooked Rugs of different styles and design.
Arline, who is jokingly called "the 25th Street Hooker", is a very talented rug maker whose elegant style in this Folk Art medium is as apparent in her rugs as it is in her personality and knowledge of the trade. Arline believes that fiber art is more than just a creative pursuit - it is soulful. "You make up your own rules as you go. Each piece is as individual as we all are." And, it is clear, Arline makes up her own rules. Not only do her rugs reflect their individual stories, but Arline enjoys sharing many funny and interesting tales as she creates fiber art.
Fiber art is a rapidly expanding field. It is a perfect medium for creative expression - the unique artistic designs, the beautiful wool colors, the variety of textures, the excitement of watching the rug materialize before your eyes - all contribute to the satisfaction of being a rug hooking artist. Traditional Rug Hooking had its start in the 1600s. Although originally made from rags on a piece of burlap or a flour sack utilizing available materials and natural dyes, there now are wide varieties of wool from mills and numerous small companies who market dyed wool and pattern designs, catering to rug makers. Rug hooking is becoming extremely popular and there are many rug camps, guilds, and associations of rug hooking.
Arline, as many other traditionalist rug makers, prefers to collect, dye, and cut her own materials. This is showcased in each beautiful rug. "I like to create my own designs" says Arline, who is also a watercolor artist. "I prefer to dye my own wool. I sometimes use natural dyes utilizing onion skins and berries. I do buy some hand dyed wool from companies across the US and locally along with a pattern I may like, such as the Warren Kimble patterns." "My favorite work is done in a fine cut (3/32nds of an inch #3-#8 are my usual choices.) I have restored and finished old hook rugs along with custom designs including braiding and budding. I love teaching and sharing my knowledge. And, I do commission work."
Arline has been featured as a finalist in the juried "Celebration" magazine, being acknowledged with her award winning piece "Pretty Lights," and in a reception & show at Saunder Village Rug competition in Ohio. She has also been in featured shows in California at Cambria Pines rug camp each June since 2003, and Laurel Mts Rug Hooking School in Pennsylvania. She has participated and taught at the National Braiding Conference in Gig Harbor Washington in 2006-2007. She has five pieces on display in the UK. Arline started professionally teaching in her historic home in Mt Pleasant and established her business "Mormon Country Ruggers" in 2003.
She loves teaching both braiding and hooking. You can sign up for instruction with Arlene at Artists and Heirlooms. Her rugs adorn the floors and furniture of many homes. They feature many different designs from folk art cabins, and street scenes to roosters and florals. With an unparalleled passion for color and subject Arline's unique styles and designs seem endless.
For more info about Arline and this amazing exhibit contact Artists & Heirlooms at (801) 391-8764
