PIXELATED PERSPECTIVES: A CONVERSATION WITH ELLEN DYNEBRINK
Step into the pixelated world of Ellen Dynebrink, where artistry meets innovation in captivating textile creations. Through pixelated representations and meticulous patchwork, Ellen redefines the boundaries of control and perfection, inviting viewers to explore the intersection of digital technology and traditional craft.
The following interview has been edited and condensed.
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COMA: Now that we're recording, let's jump right in. Ellen, thank you so much for joining us again. To start, could you share a bit about your background and journey to where you are today?
Ellen: Of course. I began my journey in textile design at the Swedish School of Textile, but soon realized the commercial focus didn't align with my creative vision. Seeking more expressive avenues, I pursued a master's in textile arts at HDK-Valand. Graduating in 2017, I've spent the last seven years exploring the realm of textile art.
COMA: Have you primarily been based in Gothenburg during this time?
Ellen: Yes, for the most part. I did have a residency in Stockholm at Iaspis for six months, which meant a lot of commuting due to family commitments. It was a challenging but enriching experience, connecting me with fellow artists.
COMA: How did you secure that residency?
Ellen: Iaspis offers open calls for residencies ranging from three to six months. Fortunately, I was selected and provided with studio space and a stipend to support my project.
COMA: Speaking of projects, could you walk us through your evolution as a textile artist, particularly your transition to working with patchwork?
Ellen: My upbringing in a household brimming with crafts, thanks to my mom's teaching in textiles and my dad's woodworking, instilled in me a passion for creation from an early age. While pursuing textile design, I became captivated by the meticulous process of image-making, which led me to explore patchwork. I found the slow, unpredictable nature of the craft allowed for deeper expression.
COMA: Your earlier works involved pixelated representations, can you elaborate on that choice?
Ellen: Pixelation offered a unique way to blend various materials, disrupting the conventional notions of control and perfection in art. It allowed for a fusion of mediums, echoing themes of feminism and self-representation.
COMA: Your current themes seem to explore the intersection of textile art and women's history. Could you delve deeper into that connection?
Ellen: Absolutely. Growing up surrounded by textile traditions, particularly those associated with women's labor, sparked an interest in reclaiming and reimagining these narratives. Through my work, I aim to breathe life into forgotten textiles, infusing them with agency and challenging societal expectations placed on women's creative expression.
COMA: Let's shift to your creative process. How do you approach the creation of your pieces?
Ellen: My process typically begins with a photograph or sketch, which I then translate digitally. I use programs like Photoshop and Stitch Fiddle to map out the design and color scheme. Selecting materials comes next, followed by meticulous cutting and assembly. It's a meticulous yet rewarding process that often surprises me with its final form.
COMA: Your upcoming projects sound exciting, especially the residency in upstate New York. How do you anticipate this experience will influence your work?
Ellen: I'm eager to immerse myself in a new cultural landscape and witness how my art resonates in different contexts. The opportunity to engage with the American art scene is both exhilarating and humbling.
COMA: Thank you so much for sharing your insights and experiences, Ellen. We look forward to seeing your continued artistic journey unfold.
Ellen: Thank you for having me. It's been a pleasure.
April, 2024 - COMA Editorial team
