Mary McMahon
I began my professional life as an art teacher after graduating from Nazareth College. I had learned knitting, embroidery and sewing from my mother and grandmother, but discovered weaving at RIT's School for American Craftsmen. The lure of textiles pulled me from public school education into the fascinating world of texture and color.
For many years I explored traditional forms of tapestry weaving in both large and small formats. I did numerous commissions for individuals and corporations in that medium. Gradually, I moved from a concentration in tapestry to a widening interest in clothing and accessories. I fell in love with chenille yarns in the '80s and have worked with them intensively to create scarves, shawls, jackets and vests, even blankets and pillows.
I have shared my love of tapestry and weaving through teaching at the Center and doing workshops for other guilds. Since 1971, I have shown my work in area shows and festivals, including Letchworth Crafts, Corn Hill, and Rochester's Clothesline Festival. My studio long ago outgrew my home. I worked at a studio in Rochester’s Anderson Alley for 10 years. Recently, I moved to a new studio location in Geneseo — closer to home!
Many wonderful friendships have resulted from my involvement with the Weavers' Guild of Rochester. Creating textiles has provided an endlessly fascinating exploration of design, color, texture, and form — a wonderful artistic journey.
