Today we’d like to introduce you to Jennifer Fleischer.
Hi Jennifer, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My journey started over a decade ago in New York, my hometown. After college, I was feeling lost and looking for an artistic outlet. My family introduced me to a friend of theirs who worked as a professional weaver. I reached out and ended up taking a year long apprenticeship with her and the small company she worked for. From the moment I arrived, I learned all about weaving and looms, instantly falling in love. Eventually I purchased a floor loom of my own and started experimenting. Next thing you know I signed up for local craft fairs. I caught the bug and slowly built up my business. It was through those markets that I became a part of the community, eventually being asked to teach workshops. In the beginning of 2020, my husband and I relocated to Nashville. Little did we know what the rest of the year would look like! Despite the challenges, I went forward, building relationships here. Just as I did in New York, I participated in markets including Porter Flea, Crafty Bastards and Tennessee Craft. I loved showing off my work and connecting with customers. Teaching continues to be a large part of my life as well. It means the world to me to share this craft with others. Every year I educate children at Cheekwood’s summer camp as well as teaching adult classes around town. Now, years into my Nashville journey, I have a studio located at the Forge, an amazing artist space near downtown. I continue to create art, teaching private & public lessons and making friends along the way.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Just like everything else, persistence is key. When I moved to Nashville, I had to navigate the pandemic, starting over in a new city and building community from the ground up. It isn’t always easy but now I love my new city and all the friends i’ve made here. Weaving is for everyone and it’s my goal to share this craft with Nashville.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I love all things fiber art but weaving is my specialty. Mostly, I work on floor looms and tapestry looms, with a focus on natural & recycled materials, I love to experiment, combining traditional and exploratory techniques. Recently, I have been working with lots of lace & inlay in my work. Weaving is for everyone and often, these products are meant to be used. My mug rugs are particularly popular as are my scarves and wall hangings. To date, my biggest accomplishment in Nashville was having a piece displayed in a group show at the Haley Gallery located in the Country Music Hall of Fame. To see my work in such a public space makes me proud of how far I’ve come. My connection with other creatives is also a big part of life and probably my favorite aspect of living here.
Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
Instagram has always been a great way to connect with other weavers. I also believe that getting out and about in Nashville is my biggest source of inspiration. Whether it’s the latest quilt exhibit at the Frist or a trip to Turnip Green, I find more stimulation in person than I do through podcasts, blogs etc.
Pricing:
- Private Lessons start at $60
Contact Info:
- Website: https://IbuTextiles.com
- Instagram: @Ibu_Textiles
