Keepers Of Tradition
 
  Introduction        Folk Arts & Heritage Program        Search Archives        Blog
Browse themes:
 
  useful things made beautiful PreviousNext
 
Finnish weaving
 
Wall Hanging, Finnish weaving, 1985; Helmi Salo (b. 1926); Fitchburg, Massachusetts; Fine wool; 49 x 20 in.; Collection of the artist; Photography by Jason Dowdle
Wall Hanging, Finnish weaving, 1985
Helmi Salo (b. 1926)
Fitchburg, Massachusetts
Fine wool
49 x 20 in.
Collection of the artist
Photography by Jason Dowdle
 
 
verticle bar Artist
Helmi Salo
Fitchburg, MA
Helmi Salo's Finnish parents settled in Maynard, Massachusetts, along with other Finns who found work in the American Woolen Mill. Helmi became interested in Finnish weaving, which she took for granted as a child, after she started working at the Perkins School for the Blind in Watertown. The school had many looms, and she began taking weaving courses. She visited Finland when her younger daughter was studying there. Alhough born here, Helmi says, "It was like going home." She toured Finnish craft shops, and learned from many weavers there. She now focuses specifically on Finnish weaving, like this bold, reversible wall hanging.
verticle bar Appears in Exhibit verticle bar Purchase Exhibition Catalogue