jon eric riis: Weaver of Symbolism and Texture

Jon Eric Riis emerged from the vibrant artistic landscape of New York City in 1968, establishing himself as a singular voice within contemporary textile art—a field where meticulous craftsmanship intertwines seamlessly with profound conceptual exploration. His oeuvre transcends mere decorative function; it’s an ambitious undertaking to investigate materiality, pattern, and symbolic resonance – elements that consistently illuminate his celebrated artworks like ‘Insect Icon Tapestry’ and ‘Flesh Kimono’. Riis's artistic genesis stemmed from a deep fascination for Japanese kimono textiles. Specifically captivated by their layered construction and understated chromatic palettes, he recognized the potential for weaving to convey complex ideas beyond visual representation. This initial influence profoundly shaped his creative process, prioritizing painstaking technique alongside intellectual rigor—a deliberate stance that reflects Riis’s conviction in the transformative power of subtle artistic expression. He consciously avoids flamboyant gestures or overtly emotive styles, favoring instead a contemplative gaze upon form and texture – a stylistic choice designed to amplify the core message of his art: beauty born from restraint. The ‘Insect Icon Tapestry,’ arguably Riis's most emblematic piece, embodies this aesthetic philosophy perfectly. Created during his formative years, it portrays a stylized insect figure rendered in muted hues of ochre and indigo against a textured linen backdrop. More than just an image, the tapestry serves as a meditation on metamorphosis and resilience – concepts deeply rooted in Buddhist iconography and mirroring Riis’s own philosophical convictions. He painstakingly crafts the weave itself, mastering techniques honed over decades of experience to achieve remarkable tonal subtlety and precision—a testament to his unwavering dedication to craftmanship. The deliberate use of linen contributes not only to textural richness but also symbolizes stability amidst change – a symbolic layering that underscores Riis's artistic intent. Similarly, ‘Flesh Kimono’ delves into themes of vulnerability and transformation, mirroring the delicate equilibrium between existence and mortality. This artwork showcases Riis’s masterful manipulation of silk chiffon and linen threads, resulting in fabric possessing an ethereal luminescence—a captivating quality that captures light and movement with graceful sophistication. The artist's careful selection of materials underscores his belief in conveying emotion through tactile experience, inviting viewers to contemplate the ephemeral nature of beauty and life itself. Riis’s artistic trajectory gained considerable momentum following the award of a United States Artists Fellowship in 2012—a prestigious honor that solidified his position as one of America's foremost textile artists and cemented his reputation for producing artworks that are both intellectually stimulating and aesthetically captivating. This recognition validated his commitment to pushing boundaries within the field, demonstrating the enduring relevance of traditional weaving techniques when combined with innovative conceptual ideas – a hallmark of Riis’s artistic vision and unwavering pursuit of artistic excellence. His work continues to inspire artists and critics alike, securing its place as a significant contribution to contemporary art history.

• Education: MFA, Rhode Island School of Design
• Notable Achievements: United States Artists Fellowship (2012)