Eva Hagström

Weaver

©Maria Lindbäck

©Eva Hagström

Sea and sky views

Eva grew up in a family with deeply rooted artisan skills
She creates in the northernmost part of the Gulf of Bothnia
Her atelier and shop boast enchanting views

Dropping by Eva Hagström’s studio is already an experience in itself due to its striking setting. Once arrived in Siknäs, it is easy to spot a traditional red wooden building with vivid blue details, surrounded by an incredible view overlooking the Baltic Sea. It is here that Eva works almost every day, hand or loom weaving textiles, embroidering and woodcarving. Looking at the whole picture, you can really see where her inspiration comes from. Groups of visitors are welcomed into an astonishing environment full of creativity and filled with the tools of the trade – looms, threads, tapestries, textile samples and sketches. Moreover, if you are interested in buying Eva’s creations, you can visit the shop, which is located close by.

Interview

©Maria Lindbäck

©Maria Lindbäck

Why did you decide to become a textile professional?: Artisanship runs in my family: one of my grandmothers had a loom with which she produced carpets on commission, while the other was a dressmaker. As a child, I used to play with all their yarns, fabrics, buttons, so I think that taking this road was a natural choice.
What has influenced your career?: My encounter with the artists Roland Larsson and Sture Berglund who were my first mentors. Then at Konstfack, May Wellner’s textile course and Arne Isaksson’s and Fritz Sjöström’s art lessons had a huge influence on me. I am also inspired by what surrounds me here in the north – from nature to music, from literature to people.
What are the pros and cons of being an artisan?: I consider myself privileged to work with textiles in my own studio, and to create what I like the most, fulfilling my passion. However, despite most people thinking that you are just living your dream, you do have to deal with other issues such as performance anxiety, taking decisions all by yourself and earning an income.
Do you consider the textile craft at risk?: Since I opened my studio in the 1980s, the interest towards craftsmanship and especially textile handicraft has been increasing. Weaving has become more relevant as it relates to the contemporary practices of recycling, reusing and sustainability.

Eva Hagström is an expert artisan: she began her career in 1985