As a maker with 20 years of experience, three threads of my practice have emerged: my solo work, my research into emerging textile technology, and my social practice work. While distinctly different in intentions and outcomes, each thread informs and supports the others. Whether engaging poetic and aesthetic pleasures, utilitarian applications, or political and critical discourse, the unified focus of my work is textiles and the role they will play in the future of our society.
Selected Publications
Hemmings, J., Tolnov Clausen, R., & Fairbanks, M. (2021). A Dialogue about Social Weaving: The Weaving Kiosk and Weaving Lab, 19(2), 223-236. https://doi.org/10.1080/14759756.2020.1856549
Hemmings, J., Fairbanks, M., Tolnov Clausen, R., & Igoe, E. (2021). Textile Design Theory in the Making (Epilogue, “To-ing and Fro-ing”). Bloomsbury.
For a full list of publications, see Fairbanks’ CV.
Featured Media
- PBS Wisconsin, Hello! Loom: Design, Innovation and Entrepreneurship
- The Cap Times, With pocket-sized Hello! Loom, weave got it made
- Politiken, Lace up your shoes and get out the door (English translation)
- Wisconsin Public Radio, Professor creates mini loom to get off your phone and create with your hands
- Our Corner of the Planet (original documentary film)
See Also
Department
- Design Studies
Degree Program
- BS Textiles & Fashion Design
- MFA Human Ecology: Design Studies
- PhD Human Ecology: Design Studies
Affiliations
Education
- MFA, Fibers and Materials Studies, School of the Art Institute of Chicago
- International Exchange Program, Kyoto Seika University
- BFA, Fibers, University of Michigan School of Art and Design
Contact
Office: 3220 Nancy Nicholas Hall
Phone: 608-890-3327
Email: mfairbanks@wisc.edu
Websites:
Social media: