50 Years of California Fibers: Polly Jacobs Giacchina

Polly Jacobs Giacchina joined California Fibers in 1986. She had written an article back then that was published in Fiber Art Magazine, and a current California Fibers’ member, Genie Shenk, contacted her to talk. She was a paper maker and a member of the group. They talked about all sorts of fiber, travel, working, and art in different countries. This led to a friendship and an invitation to submit to the next California Fiber jury. Jacobs Giacchina was accepted into California Fibers and says she has benefited so much through the years.

Her work has always used handweaving and basketry techniques. An example of her early work below is Tri-Form, made from date palm and steel cable…

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Also from that time period is Always Together, made from date palm and willow.

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Jacobs Giacchina writes that she felt it was a time when she started doing separate units and uniting them to relate to each other.

Jacobs Giacchina states that California Fibers has provided her with valuable friendships and encouragement for her fiber art work. She has grown with her designs and materials but has continued to use those basketry and handweaving techniques throughout the years. She also very much appreciates the exhibition opportunities with the group and its expanding presence in the art world.

One of her more recent pieces is Fabricated, made from Palembang reed and copper (9” x 20” x 12”).

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Another recent piece is Snare, an installation of wire and stone (two units, each approximately 70” h x 35” w x 5” deep).

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