Katharina Jebsen

Weaver

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Modern textiles from historical research

History and textiles fascinate Katharina
She bought her own hand Jacquard loom for a commission
When she examines art pieces, she is captivated by their spirit

Katharina Jebsen considers herself first and foremost a weaver, although she studied conceptual textile design and also works as a designer, researcher, author and lecturer. Her expertise is in examining and replicating historic textiles. In recent years she has gained a lot of experience working with Bauhaus artwork. As far back as she can remember, Katharina has been fascinated by textiles and history, so after school she decided to train as a tailor at the Berlin State Opera and in Dresden. Today she examines textiles in a deeper and more scientific way and over the last decade Katharina has received several awards, especially for her conceptual weaving work. Katharina's clients include some of Germany's most renowned art museums and international foundations.

Interview

How do you proceed when examining a textile?
I usually spend some time alone with the textile piece. I mostly examine works that are handwoven by one person and they often hold a special appeal for me. The more I become involved with the work and the artist, the better I understand how and why the artist worked in a particular way. Doing this also allows me to select the right materials for the replicas, especially if the original materials are no longer available.
How do you use your research work as a weaver?
During my research, I take numerous notes about very small details in the fabric, a beautiful weave or an especially beautiful colour combination. My personal work is greatly influenced by what I find in my research.
Have you made any specially commissioned works?
The Bauhaus Foundation/Museum in Dessau commissioned me to reproduce a wall hanging by textile artist Gunta Stölzl. Based on my examination, I needed a hand Jacquard loom with a weaving width of at least 1.5 metres. The only place with Jacquard looms with a suitable size was in the Netherlands. I decided to purchase my own hand Jacquard loom and found the right one in Norway.
How do you define work well done?
It is extremely nice when a customer is happy with a commissioned piece, be it for a museum or a private customer. I was particularly pleased when Monika Stadler, daughter of the late Bauhaus artist Gunta Stölzl thanked me for my creation. In my own work I know something is going well when I keep wanting to go to the loom to look at it.

Katharina Jebsen is an expert artisan: she began her career in 2013