Fiber Fashions on the Runway

Imagine going to a fashion show where one of the outfits consists of a pair of floor lamps and is modeled by a local dignitary.

The lampshades were covered in batik fiber art and clothing labels and modeled by a well-known county assessor and radio host.

This is just one example of the fiber artistry on display at Southwest Women’s Fiber Art Collective’s annual “Tapestry of Talent” fashion show. Anything and everything created of fiber will be on the runway Apr. 4.

This is the fourth year of SWFAC’s annual fundraiser, which will be held this year at a new location, The Hearth, 1915 North Swan St., Silver City. The Silco Theatre, TOT’s previous venue, will be undergoing updates to the stage and backstage areas this spring.

TOT is also part of the Silver City Art Associations “Weekend at the Galleries” and SCAA Red Dot Month. SWFAC is a gallery member of the art association and is able to participate in the annual “Weekend at the Galleries” which has now moved from October to April starting this year.

TOT is the result of a strong and caring committee. This year Lisa Rush is the TOT chairperson.

“The collective is more than a creative space—it’s a support system,” she said. “By amplifying women fiber artists, we’re fostering confidence, collaboration, and lasting impact beyond the runway.”

Months of planning by SWFAC members make TOT the success that it is. From coordinating models, location, ticket sales, raffle prizes and publicity the all-volunteer committee works together. All models are SWFAC members and friends who volunteer for this fashion event. Background music has been donated by internationally acclaimed musician and Silver City resident Stefan Schyga.

All TOT items are created by members and showcase the diverse range of textile art. Clothing and accessories fabricated from weaving, knitted and crocheted, traditional patterns as well as up-cycled and re-imagined garments will strut down the aisle of the Hearth.

Pine-needle baskets, wall hangings, quilted table runners, along with woven placemats and napkins will adorn the models. Large tapestries and quilts may require more than one model to display.

TOT is an opportunity for each member to sell their creations. Some items in the fashion show may not be for sale, but the majority of items will be. The program will list an item number and price.

At the end of the program, items will be for sale in the auditorium for a shopping frenzy. Additional opportunities to buy the fiber arts that have not been sold will be available at Silver City Tye Dye during the following week.

“I am always impressed by the variety of garments and accessories created for the show,” SWFAC president Charmeine Wait is proud to say. “Each one is unique and seeing them makes me smile. This year we have one of our sister organizations, Weaving For Justice, participating in the finale. Vintage textiles from Latin America that have been donated by textile enthusiasts from around the country will be featured. The proceeds from the sale of these items will go to The Maya Education Foundation to provide scholarships.”

TOT is a fundraiser for SWFAC. Proceeds from the ticket sales and raffle baskets fund the group’s outreach programs. The outreach programs teach classes and appreciation for fiber arts to the community and teach skills that can earn income.

Part of SWFAC’s mission is sharing fiber art, especially with youth to encourage the next generation of fiber artists. “Mending our Ways” repair day is held monthly at the Future Forge to teach how to do small clothing repairs.

The mission for Southwest Women’s Fiber Arts Collective is to celebrate fiber art and realize its economic potential, nurture and empower both novice and skilled fiber artists, enrich the community by fostering opportunities to experience, learn and earn.

Incorporated in 2005, the Southwest Women’s Fiber Arts Collective is a grass roots, non-profit 501(c)3 organization. Our goal is to stimulate and support successful cottage fiber industry in the southwest.

We provide communication and information among artisans and guilds about art and craft shows and sales, workshops, classes, and teachers. By creating a networking-structure we improve opportunities for everyone working in fiber arts to gain skills and financial independence.

Ticket sales start in early March. They are available online by credit card through the organization’s website fiberartscollective.org. In person tickets, cash only, can be purchased at Silver City Tye Dye located at the corner of Yankie and Texas Streets most Thursdays through Saturdays noon to 4 p.m. and on Wednesdays at SWAG Bookstore from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.  Tickets are $20 each. Get your tickets early as this event usually sells out and tickets may not be available at the door.

For further information and tickets, please visit SWFAC’s website, fiberartscollective.org,