Christopher Payne (American, 1968) Wool carders, S&D Spinning Mill, Millbury, Mass. 2012.
It should come as no surprise that the textile industry in the United States is suffering. In fact, the textile industry around the world is going through major changes as mills continue to close, and weaving techniques slip out of family traditions. Artist, Christopher Payne has taken notice and has begun documenting this suffering industry. We first heard about his body of work in the January 10, 2014 edition of the New York Times Magazine. The article Fruits of the Loom featured Payne’s work, and discussed the importance of remembering this once critical industry to the vitality of our country. These images are particularly special to us, as we experience the changing textile industry first hand with Twill Textiles.
The works are available at the Bonni Benrubi Gallery.
Christopher Payne (American, 1968) Warp beam detail with finished warp yarn ready for weaving on the loom, Woolrich Woolen Mill, Woolrich, Pa. 2012.
Christopher Payne (American, 1968) Picker and duster for separating and cleaning raw wool, Bartlettyarns, Harmony, Me. 2012.
Christopher Payne (American, 1968) Creel with tubes filled with woolen yarn for a carpet loom, Bloomsburg Carpet Industries, Bloomsburg, Pa. 2012.
All images courtesy of The New York Times Magazine.