TCA Exhibits: This is My Vessel – Works by Nicki Stewart

Friday, February 28th, 2025

4:00 PM - 6:00 PM

Taos Center for the Arts

This is My Vessel

works by Nicki Stewart

February 28 – April 13

Opening Reception: FRI, February 28, 4-6pm

We come into the world with one body, one vessel. Throughout each phase of life, we learn, grow, change, accept, and become who we truly are. Our DNA, society, environmental factors, daily choices, and, ultimately, time shape us. Stewart’s work delves into these dialogues through the use of repurposed textiles, embroidery, and collected materials.

Through her art, she aims to illuminate issues of inequality and social injustice, drawing on her own experiences and observations. Stewart hopes her work sparks dialogue and reveals a deeper connection to our shared experiences.

“In my work, I aim to reveal a deeper connection to our shared experiences by exploring themes of inequality, ancestry, and trauma.” – Nicki Stewart

Artist Bio:  

In her work, visual artist Nicki Stewart weaves stories of identity and belonging, drawing from the tapestry of ancestry, sustainability, and gender. Using needle and thread, Nicki crafts images that highlight often neglected or underrepresented themes. She spent years in Los Angeles, where she graduated from the California Institute of the Arts, and spent her early career working in film and television. Nicki believes in the healthy mindfulness of mending and its value in reviving and reusing materials to take a more circular approach to living, wearing, and experiencing art.

Artist Statement: 

As an artist living and creating in the vibrant cultural tapestry of Taos, NM, my work in textiles is a meditation on ancestry, sustainability, and gender. Through each strand and stitch, I endeavor to weave narratives that transcend the fabric, connecting past and present, personal and universal.

My creations are not merely artistic expressions but are vessels of emotion, embodying the complexities of connection and disconnection, love and betrayal, inequality and harmony. I draw inspiration from the rich heritage of my lineage, seeking to honor the stories and struggles of those who came before me while acknowledging the ongoing journey toward equality and understanding.

Sustainability is a cornerstone of my practice, guiding my choice of materials and methods. I am committed to honoring the Earth and its resources, recognizing the intricate relationship between nature and art. By repurposing and reimagining materials, I strive to create works that are not only visually compelling but also environmentally conscious.

Gender, as both a construct and an experience, informs the textures and patterns I employ. I invite viewers to engage with the nuanced dialogues of identity and societal roles. Each piece explores the multifaceted nature of human existence, reflecting the trauma and triumph that define our collective experience.