In a time where artists of all disciplines are riding the line between digital and analog, textile artists have carved a digital meets analog niche out of the history and tradition of hand-weaving.
The first TC1 (Thread Controller) was invented in 1995 and was available globally to individuals and universities and was then completely redesigned in 2012 as the TC2. Since then, demand and acquisition of this tool has skyrocketed. There are more than 50 TC2s in the United States alone, and Praxis Fiber Workshop owns and runs the only open artist residency for the loom in North America. It is the vision of Praxis Digital Weaving Lab Director, Cathryn Amidei, to host a triennial conference to bring together the growing number of individuals whose practices have been revolutionized by this tool. ‘Praxis & Practice: Digital Weaving Conference’ is an equitable model for joining practitioners from all over the globe to share research and experiences that are paving the way for a new movement and perspective in contemporary art and design. We welcome all users of the TC2 to apply as panelists and speakers for paid opportunities to present their research and findings. Featured presenters include Vibeke Vestby (inventor of the TC1 & TC2) and Janice Lessman-Moss (Retired Chair of textiles at Kent State University). The conference will take place at Praxis Fiber Workshop (Cleveland, OH), Cleveland Institute of Art, (Cleveland, OH) and Kent State College of Art (Kent, OH).