Parallel Threads Weaves Together Art and History at Bristol Art Museum

Prepare to journey through time and across continents at the Bristol Art Museum’s upcoming exhibit, Parallel Threads: Entangled Ends. Opening December 8, this immersive showcase delves into the intersecting histories of textile production in New England and Queensland, Australia. Through a blend of art and storytelling, the exhibit explores how these regions share a common narrative of innovation, tradition, and loss tied to their textile industries.

Curated by Rhode Island artist Deborah Baronas and Australian historian Dr. Janis Hanley, Parallel Threads highlights the decline of textile mills in New England and Ipswich, Australia. Once-thriving hubs of industry, these communities saw their looms fall silent between the 1950s and 1990s, bringing an end to vibrant local economies and generations of skilled craftsmanship. “This is a way to remember what this industry brought, and what it left behind,” Baronas explains.

The exhibit offers a multisensory experience, featuring artwork from American and Australian creators who celebrate the artistry of textiles. Highlights include works by U.S. artists Paula Stebbins Becker, Robyn Borges, and Kristin Crane, alongside Australian creatives Hennie Cote and Mieke den Otter, and UK artist Anthea Davies. Visitors can explore a variety of mediums, from paintings and sketchbooks to woven designs, each capturing the cultural and historical significance of textile communities.

Beyond the art, Parallel Threads features a robust lineup of programs. A documentary by filmmaker Alexander Spiess offers an in-depth look at the themes of the exhibit, while panel discussions and January film screenings explore broader topics in textile culture. The opening day festivities on December 8 will include live music by Rhode Island’s Mike Laureanno, creating an immersive atmosphere for this cultural celebration. For more information about the exhibit and its programs, visit BristolArtMuseum.org.