Christiane Englsberger

Soy Como Soy

Milliner

©Christiane Englsberger

The nature of hats

Christiane is completely self-taught
She draws inspiration from the structures of nature
She practises and revives traditional techniques

Christiane Englsberger has had an affinity for all things textile from an early age. “When I was only five years old I was allowed to use my grandmother’s sewing machine, so I have been sewing all my life. At some point I got into hats and that's what still keeps my attention today.” It started around 1997 with very simple sewn hats. Over the years since then Christiane has taught herself well known and almost forgotten techniques, and acquired the skills of her craft through continuous practice, trial and error, without attending a single course. In 2014 the Bayerischer Staatspreis honoured her persistent work with textiles, a prize followed by national and international recognition.

Interview

©Christiane Englsberger

©Christiane Englsberger

What techniques do you use?: Classical techniques of hat making. I am currently focusing on the processing of feathers and a very old, almost extinct technique of straw weaving, which originally comes from Switzerland.
Where do you draw inspiration from?: My works deal with the abundant wealth of forms in nature. Behind the seemingly random and chaotic growth of plants lies a clear symmetry. The most impressive materials in texture and colour are always of natural origin. The focus remains on the fineness and aura of the processed material.
Could an urban environment ever inspire you in the same way?: No, I appreciate the peace and quiet of the countryside very much. I need that environment in order to channel my creativity. For me, city life involves constant overstimulation and I am afraid my creativity would just deteriorate.
How would you define excellence?: Excellence is a state of mind and the basis of well made work. It does not mean that everything always works out, but it is about the willingness and the effort to try to do it better the next time.

Christiane Englsberger is a master artisan: she began her career in 2000 and she started teaching in 2015