Jagoda Buic: Converting fibers into architecture

Jacoda Buid is an artist, known for a series of innovative weaving projects that unfold into three-dimensional space and dominate due to their imposing size and coarse texture. Buic, together with Magdalena Abakanovicz, Sheila Hicks and other artists  is one of the most significant figures who contributed in the transformation of textiles and fibers, from a craft to a form of art. Through her work, Buic endeavors to find a balance between weaving and architecture, between massive volumes and sturdy textiles. The robust weavings of Buic are not only sculptural objects that somebody simply wants to look at, but textured object that someby wants to touch and feel.

Jacoda Buic was born in Croatia, in 1930. She studied painting, art history, interior architecture, costume design and textiles. In 1970, she represented Yugoslavia in the 35^th Venice Biennale. She is also one of the pioneering artists who participated in the Lausanne International tapestry Biennals.

As main raw materials Buic uses natural fibers, such as wool and sisal. The dominant colors are mostly, black, brown and other earth tones. Occasionally, she uses white and red. In general, her color palette is extremely limited. In relation to fibers she opted for natural fibers instead of synthetic, because of their color and texture. 

By examining most of her works, such as the triptychs and the “wounded pigeons” one realizes their strong connection with architecture and three-dimensional space. Indeed, her weavings give the impression of being robust walls made out of fragile fibers.

The weavings of Buic dominate in space due to their size, texture and dark tones. The raw materials and techniques have references to the culture of her country. Many weavings were commissioned in local workshops and made by experienced and high skilled women who still used traditional techniques.