Textile (Fiber) Art – Tapestry

Textile (Fiber) Art

Textile art dates back to pre-historic times, when the function of the finished product was purely practical: clothing or blankets for warmth.  Over time, the creation of textiles from plant or animal fibers became increasingly complex and elaborate.  Those with money could afford to decorate the walls, floors, and furniture in their homes with intricate textiles.  With the advent of the Industrial Revolution, and the mechanization of the process of creating fabric, textiles became more accessible to the general populace.   Artists and crafters began to experiment with fibers and textiles.  Textile art stands out from other media as it often walks the line between beauty and practicality.  Today, the terms textile and fiber art are often used to refer to decorative objects that have no practical use.