Art in Motion: Threading Through Town with Jennifer Taggart Wilson
Monday, October 21, 2024
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Jennifer Taggart Wilson’s journey to being a fiber artist shows that it is never too late to rediscover old passions. After a 25-year career as a forensic scientist, to becoming a celebrated fiber artist, Jennifer has captivated the community with her large-scale yarn portraits. Her work, now displayed on a CATA bus and billboards, shows her dedication and unique artistic approach.
Taggart Wilson’s artistic evolution began with a passion for creativity, which she had set aside for a career in forensic science. “I’ve always been an artist, ever since I was very young, but I kind of put it on the back burner for a while. I had a different career, but I always come back to it.” After retiring from working at the state police a little over a year ago, she decided to rekindle her artistic flame.
She started with pet portraits and discovered a desire to focus on creating amazing depictions. “That’s what I am drawn to do, is to try to create a likeness and a face out of, now yarn, which is kind of challenging.”
To make these pieces, Taggart Wilson has mastered the punch-needle technique. This is a method that involves using yarn to create intricate designs on stretched cloth and has become her signature artistic style. Her creative process is meticulous and inspiring. It starts with a sketch of her ideas, then moves to building frames to support her pieces.
Taggart Wilson believes art “is meant to inspire people, but also to enrich our lives. I personally just love surrounding myself with artwork that makes me happy, that inspires me to do more.” She has a deep gratitude for the opportunities provides by the Arts Council of Greater Lansing and CATA, which have allowed her and other artists to share their work in a unique way with the broader community.
Taggart Wilson’s story is a testament to the power of following one’s passion and the impact that art can have on both the creator and the community. Her journey from forensic science to a fiber artist is a reminder that it is never too late to pursue your dreams and make a meaningful difference through creativity.
Check out Jennifer Taggart Wilson’s fantasy world on one of CATA’s buses. The Arts Council of Greater Lansing and CATA’s partnership showcases Capital City Region’s local artists through the Art in Motion campaign.
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