Soft Power
Materials: Knitting yarn (wool/acrylic), paracord, cotton cord, rayon and velvet fabric, sisal, human hair, metal.
Soft Power is an exploration of the underlying function of the knot, as a language and bearer of knowledge. The project stems from an interest in the tacit knowledge the knot embodies, referring to the Inca Empire communication tool of strings- khipus.
With inspiration from the macramé resurgence in the 1970’s, the perception of the knot is explored through repetitive knotting, using the same macramé knot consistently throughout the project. The three dimensional qualities of the specific knot emphasised by enlargement of the thread. Through repetition and material exploration, the project aims to elevate macramé as a form of cultural expression and shed light on the overlooked (women) practitioners.
The visual outcome is a series of three knotted works: Safeguard, Rebel Knot and Amulet of Preservation responding and imitates the others in form, size and texture. The conversation between the different bodies of work serves as a silent search for expression of identity where the importance of tacit, inherited knowledge, is reflected upon.
@sofiekarlsson.textile
www.sofiekarlsson.com
sofie.h.karlsson@gmail.com
