This installation came together in a wonderfully unexpected way, from the initial offer to create it to the design itself. While I’m not typically known for weaving or human sculptures, I thrive on stepping outside my comfort zone and exploring new artistic territories. Just a week before I was presented with the opportunity to work on the guardhouse, I stumbled upon the concept of the guardians, inspired in part by some porcelain doll heads I had been holding onto, waiting for the right moment to ignite my creativity, never imagining they would evolve into this vibrant public art installation.
The installation reflects the rich history of the mill, once one of the largest cotton mills in the world. It housed 2,000 textile looms and was the first cotton mill in the state to utilize hydroelectric power sourced remotely. Every element I incorporated was thoughtfully gathered with this history in mind. The cord was crafted from sewing pattern paper that had been left at my home, while the fabric covering the floor was cotton I salvaged from a recycling center in North Carolina, which originated from a mill in South Carolina—I like to think this cotton has come home and the spindles used in the installation were salvaged from the mill itself by 701 Whaley
This installation encapsulates the entire narrative; the guardians of the mill stand watch over the hands that operate the looms, guiding the threads that weave the fabric. The red string symbolizes the heart and dedication demanded of the workers, representing the invaluable contributions the mill made to the city of Columbia.