Dwelling with Grief

Project Statement

"Dwelling with Grief" delves into themes of intimacy, softness, and meditation as avenues for navigating memory and loss, particularly in relation to the passing of my father. Each page of this collection, fashioned in the form of a journal, serves as a stitched collage representing emotions or memories. The materials and fibers used are chosen for their sensory significance, guiding me through a process of reflection and meditation on the passage of time and individual emotions.

As I constructed these collages, I found parallels in the evolution of grief. It's a process that defies containment, marked by moments of unexpected resurgence triggered by various stimuli. Initially, my exploration of grief focused on sharper emotions like anger and disruption. However, as time passed, my perspective softened, leading to a more intimate engagement with the experience of loss.

The relationship I shared with my father takes on new sweetness in the light of his absence. Through creating these works, I've not only opened up about my own journey but also found empathy and connection with others navigating similar paths. What was once a solitary journey has evolved into a shared experience, enriching our collective understanding and fostering a more authentic community. It prompts a question: What revelations await when we allow ourselves to fully embrace our grief?

Artist Bio

Freyja CG Kohler, mixed-media fiber artist seamlessly blending traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge digital techniques. Her art resonates with a harmonious fusion of textures and colors, ranging from digital illustrations and classic prints to intricate soft sculptures. Come dwell in her world, where she unravels the secrets of sewing, collage, and printing, creating an immersive experience that weaves together the past and the future in every stitch and pixel.

Freyja found excitement in using her prints on textiles, experimenting with fiber fabrics and handmade papers to craft three-dimensional sculptures. While contemplating abandoning traditional print methods, she realized the importance of preserving that aspect of her practice. Ultimately, she embraced a dual identity as a fiber artist and a printmaker, creating a tangible and intimate space for her art—a safe haven for deeper exploration of challenging and personal emotions such as grief.