Katja Stelz

Weaver

©André Reuter

©Max Reinhard

©André Reuter

Weaving infinite possibilities

Katja works with traditional weaving techniques
She has a graphic contemporary aesthetic
She received the Bavarian State Prize 2019

During her mostly listless time at school, the young Katja Stelz was increasingly drawn by the idea of 'thinking with her hands'. It was “the thrill of working concretely” driven by “the urge to experience the process of manifestation, when an abstract idea is transformed into a tangible object”, that finally led her down the path of becoming an artisan. A three-year apprenticeship, during which she learnt and practised the craft of a weaver, was followed by textile design studies. Today, with almost 40 years of experience, Katja's works are characterised by excellence. Inspired by colours, structures and rhythms in architecture and nature, she creates works of sublime aesthetic and material quality.

Interview

©André Reuter

©Max Reinhardt

How would you define your approach?: I work with traditional methods from classical hand weaving. Only natural fibres such as pure new wool, fine hair yarns, silk and linen are used. The design of my products is modern and timeless, strictly graphic and clearly laid out, a contemporary aesthetic.
What fascinates you most about your craft?: To be confronted with the laws of techniques and material properties and to apply them again and again in a virtuoso manner. There are infinite possibilities to explore within the interplay of line and surface.
What defines a product that is well made?: A product that repeatedly proves its usefulness in everyday life. Sensually pleasing, made of pure 'honest' materials, outlasting trends and fashions, whose production method and material qualities are sensibly matched to its function.
Is your craft under threat?: Yes, as it is becoming increasingly difficult to obtain training, and the understanding and appreciation of weaving is being lost. Especially as the complexity of the creation process and the knowledge of materials needed are not visible to the observer.

Katja Stelz is an expert artisan: she began her career in 2001