Allyson Rousseau (Fiber Artist)

Wall hangings are having a major moment in design right now. Over the last few years, I’ve seen a lot of pieces that draw inspiration from woven hangings from the 1950s and 1970s. They are updated versions on a vintage style: lovely but with a retro feel. I completely appreciate the amount of work that goes into creating such pieces, but, for some reason, the new wave of wall hangings wasn't really speaking to me. That is, until I saw the work of today’s contributor, Allyson Rousseau, and everything changed!! Unlike other wall hangings I've seen, Allyson's work doesn't feel retro and traditional, but completely contemporary and new!

Using bold, geometric shapes and bright colors to create work that feels like it’s one part sculpture and one part textile, Allyson challenges our traditional ideas about wall hangings. Her pieces are not only filled with texture and color, but also with so much joy! Whenever I look at all her happy colors and fun shapes, my mood is instantly lifted! I think if I were ever in a room with one of Allyson’s wall hangings, I would have to fight the impulse to hug it! All her pieces look so warm and cuddly! You can see some of my favorites above and below―the pink "O" makes me swoon!

I hope Allyson’s work has brightened your day on this cold winter day! You can check out more of her lush wall hangings on her website and on Instagram. Scroll down to read all about her inspirations. Thanks, Allyson! ~Erin

Listen

Podcast:

99% Invisible, Episode #284―Hero Props: Graphic Design in Film & Television.

I listen to this podcast a lot when I work.

Read

I have two recommendations:

Lunch Lady magazine , Issue 8

I was actually featured in this issue! But aside from that, it's a beautiful read filled with so many delightful articles and recipes.

The Sun and Her Flowers by Rupi Kaur (poetry)

I read this in one sitting over the holidays on my train ride back home to Montréal from Toronto. It was a lovely introspective read, especially after just having spent so much time with other people over Christmas.