Meet Katy Abramson

Today we’d like to introduce you to Katy Abramson.

Every artist has a unique story. Can you briefly walk us through yours?
I have always been a maker. Assembling, cutting, gluing, hammering, drilling — using tools and making messes. As a teen, my first earnest hobby was photography and my first camera was a Nikon FM2 35mm SLR. This phenomenal tool had so many buttons, options and decisions to make. Behind the lens of a camera was a safe and romantic way to experience the world.

A part-time job at a bead shop in my early twenties ushered in the next phase of my creativity — jewelry design. I carefully assembled semi-precious stones into elaborate configurations using wire, chain, and a sensible clasp. Back then, I had a respect for form and function that still drives my work today.

I studied Art History at Indiana University Bloomington followed by Commercial Digital Photography at Harrington College of Design in Chicago, IL. The ‘digital’ piece of my photography degree directed me towards a career as a graphic designer. A sensible choice for a modern creative, graphic design continues to challenge and captivate me over ten years later.

Four years ago, everything changed during a macramé plant hanger class at a yarn shop in Atwater Village. I followed the instructions and completed my perfect plant hanger twice as quickly as my fellow students. I remember that day vividly. I knew I had stumbled on something special, something sacred. Since then I haven’t stopped learning new knots or experimenting with materials and techniques to incorporate into macramé such as natural dyes, ceramic beads, wood, metal, and even light. I am passionate about knots; their meaning and use, their place in our history and culture, their beauty and curves, and their ability to unite. When creativity strikes I feel connected, free, alive and protected. Thanks to my knot practice I have learned patience, I am a better designer, a better partner, a better daughter, and a better friend. I feel incredibly fortunate to have discovered this intriguing fiber art.

About a year ago, I leapt outside my comfort zone and started teaching private lessons and workshops. This helped me find my voice and allowed me to share my passion for knots with others, the most thrilling discovery of all.

Please tell us about your art.
I tie knots. Macramé wall hangings, plant hangers, jewelry, furniture up-cycle and most recently lamps. But I’ll tie knots on anything and sometimes I just tie for the sake of fun or practice. As I move through the world, I look for new ways to incorporate knots into everyday items. The options for organizing and arranging knots are incalculable, which is incredibly stimulating.

Knots have been serving humans for centuries — their contribution to our evolution is considerable. They are both beautiful and useful, an original use case for form vs. function. As with the allure of a camera and semi-precious stones, my inspiration comes from the materials and the world around me. I view my work as a study of shape and line, little experiments that are constantly evolving. As am I.

I hope my work evokes a sense of calm and playfulness for the viewer. I hope it stirs memories of a simpler time, full of wonder and possibility. Most of all, I hope to shine a light on these ancient and elegant knots that contribute so much to our modern world.

Given everything that is going on in the world today, do you think the role of artists has changed? How do local, national or international events and issues affect your art?
I believe it is essential for all of us, artists and otherwise, to be informed and do the work of understanding our biases and assumptions, unlearning them and doing everything possible to combat injustice in all forms. My peace comes from doing this important work balanced with the gentle path of ‘do no harm.’ Cultivating my own goodness and sharing it with my community through generosity, friendship, compassion, and my art. However, I am aware of the advantages (and disadvantages) I experience due the body I was born with. I could always be doing more and I’m open to ideas, suggestions, and conversations to help me help others.

All roles are constantly evolving, as everything is always in flux. Every human, not just artists, has the honor and privilege to interpret and express their own obligation to society and to themselves. May all beings be happy, peaceful and live with ease.

How or where can people see your work? How can people support your work?
My latest macramé lantern is on display in the lobby of L34 Group at 5622 N Figueroa in Highland Park. I’m teaching two macrame wallhanging workshops in the next two months. Follow me on social media for the latest news, workshops, exhibits, and pictures of my cat. I love to collaborate! Contact me for commissions and collaborations. Let’s make something special for your special space. I love to teach and can accommodate groups up to 10. Will host or travel. Check out this video to see me in action https://bit.ly/2SBFx84

Contact Info:

• Address: 5233 Riverton, North Hollywood
• Website: https://www.katyabramson.com/
• Phone: 7735622214
• Email: katyabramson@gmail.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katyabramson/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/katy.abramson
• Other: https://bit.ly/2SBFx84

Image Credit:
Matt Murray, John Dagostino and Katy Abramson.

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