Ice Follies 2004

Susan Detwiler, Housecoat, 2004

Materials: Purpose-built hut wrapped in parka materials

Susan Detwiler is known as an artist who uses fabric in unique contexts. She has been known to work with roadkill and hunter’s blinds in the past. For this show, Detwiler has clothed a hut in snowmobile suit material, given it pockets and a sash, and in this way “humanized” the structure. The use of the wool and flannel, stuffed with polyfill, gives the hut a layer of extra protection. This “protection” is something that humankind has needed in dealing with and surviving in the natural world, however, now it is more often than not the environment that needs protection from humankind. And on another level, the work simply references our desire and need for warmth and comfort. The hut is titled Housecoat

Artist Bio:

Susan Detwiler is a contemporary artist living in Southwestern Ontario. Her art practice is based on her daily interactions and observations within the natural landscape. Recent works include installation, sculpture, video, photography and drawing. Susan studied at the NSCAD and later at the University of Guelph. She currently teaches at the Dundas Valley School of Art and the University of Guelph.