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Hali
November-December 2002
Modern Carpet Focus
"Innovation and risk taking are
prerequisites for evolution and
change."
After her early training as a weaver
and her experience gained in antique
carpet restoration, ASHA Carpets
founder Joanna Michalowicz was hired
to teach Chinese weavers to hand-knot
carpets and other specialist
techniques. |
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This prompted her to venture out on her own
and establish ASHA Carpets in 2000.
Joanna's personal and professional
investment in the people who create the rugs
of ASHA Carpets has paid off in terms of
quality and creative control. The firm's
weavers are women who, for the most part,
have been trained in her workshop. They can
execute symmetrical and asymmetrical knots,
combine flatweave and pile, and replicate
virtually any weaving technique once
instructed.
All ASHA Carpets rugs are made in China
with wools chosen from across the country as
well as some from New Zealand. The wool used
is both hand- and machine-spun; with the two
often combined in a single design to create
interesting textural effects ofvarying
sheens and weights.
ASHA Carpets' designs are produced in
varying grades. Knotted carpets are produced
at 120, 96, 80, 60, 50 and 40 knots per
foot, while flatweave carpets come in both
heavy and lightweight versions. "The
different grades provide us with a broader
vocabulary with which to interpret our
designs," explains Joanna. "For example,
simple minimal designs executed in 40 or 60
knots will create a very soft, plush pile.
Designs with many colours or intricate
patterns require higher grades in order to
ensure that the details will not get lost in
the translation from drawing to woven rug."
"There is currently a big interest in mixed
weave techniques, innovative textures and
the combination of new and traditional
design elements," continues Joanna. "We are
very attached to developing this cross-over
aesthetic. We like to use the element of
surprise in our designs and add a little
unexpected edginess.” |
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For more info : ASHA CARPETS, 94-98 Nassau Avenue # 360,
Brooklyn, NY 11222
Tel (914) 645-1262, e-mail:
ashacarpets
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