Hi. I’m Becca Freeman, a California-born fiber artist based in Queenstown, New Zealand.
My primary medium is wool, though I also work with silk and other animal and plant fibers, applying them to various substrates, often canvas. My artistic practice encompasses techniques such as knitting, spinning, twisting, felting, wrapping, draping, and sewing.
My pieces are meditations on color, texture, and movement, often manifesting as landscapes or seascapes. I explore both subtle transitions and bold contrasts, experimenting with scale and engaging each fiber in multiple ways to uncover what it ‘wants to be.’
The unique qualities of Otago's sunlight and shadow profoundly influence my work. I am also captivated by the interplay between microenvironments—like delicate mounds of moss—and the monumental expanses of mountains and lakes. Through my art, I strive to evoke a sense of movement and perhaps, surprise.
My journey with wool began in my youth as I learned to knit and purl from my mother. Knitting fostered a sense of community among women and allowed me to create one-of-a-kind garments. Over the years, my practice has evolved from following patterns to exploring the nuances of color, texture, and scale.
Now I am working with wool in less processed forms, relishing the opportunity to connect with the sources of my materials. Working with less processed fiber involves moving away from store bought yarn and instead carding/dyeing/spinning by hand.
Living in New Zealand has enabled and enriched this experience. The majority of my wool now comes from Tallyho Wool carding in Raes Junction, Otago. Barb and Stuart Peel, the farmers, are welcoming hosts and my family visits their flock regularly. It has been a joy to connect with the artisans involved in the wool production process.
I am a member of the Queenstown Arts Society and Creative Fibre. My work has been exhibited at Te Atamira and is held in private collections globally.