These dolls are part of a series in response to my study of the mummy bundle dolls from pre-Columbian Peru. These ancient peoples of South America are considered to be among the world’s finest and most creative weavers. In their burials they surrounded a mummified body with many layers of fabrics to create a mummy bundle. Often the burial included reed and fabric dolls involved in various activities as well. My dolls are self-portraits giving embodiment to alternate versions of my identity. With these dolls the story is about me. Each one manifests an interest of mine whether it is gardening, dancing or questioning my path. The faces and dresses are woven tapestry of wool with rya hair of mixed fibers. Two of the dolls are placed on sticks chewed by beavers while “Nina Roja” has a cast bronze body created by my husband Stephen Driver.

Over the years my work ranges from small bags to large fabric strip rugs on commission. In my tapestries I often choose bold colors and simple shapes that include a narrative element to create a deeper level of meaning for myself and hopefully for the viewer. I grew up as the daughter of two visual artists. My childhood gave me a rich inheritance that includes vivid images of a home filled with art. I gained an awareness of the past as I rode my bike through the streets of downtown Charleston SC. My love for words and books was encouraged by my many excellent teachers and made easy by a short walk under large oaks to the local library.

I weave on my Cranbrook floor loom having learned tapestry initially from Edwina Bringle. For many years I wove rugs while now I create mostly tapestries for the wall. In 1971 I received my BA in Philosophy from Sarah Lawrence College. After graduating I studied weaving at Arrowmont School of Crafts, Penland School and the University of Georgia working with Glen Kaufman. It was with Glen Kaufman that I undertook my research into ancient Peruvian cultures and wove my first doll. Later I studied with Walter Nottingham at the University of Wisconsin in River Falls. In 2007 I completed my MFA-Interdisciplinary Arts from Goddard College and am expanding my art practice to include stand-up comedy, installations and writing.