Neurotangle by: Textile Artist Nina Martine Robinson
Textile artist Nina Martine Robinson is an emerging St. Paul-based contemporary textile artist whose creative process starts with a sewing machine. Neurotangle, created in 2019, is an early exploration into utilizing repurposed clothing as a metaphor for neurodiversity.
In 2018, her 23-year-old son was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, specifically Aspergers Syndrome. Many individuals on the spectrum have self-soothing behaviors called “stims.” These repetitive actions help to calm nerves and soothe them during high-stress situations. For her son, it the deconstruction of his pants.
“I have spent hours mending belt loops, pockets, and patching,” Nina reports.
How Neurotangle Reveals Autism
Ms. Robinson’s recent installation work is a response to this repetitive behavior. The deconstruction of the clothing and the repetitive stitching create new forms of expression of Autism and neurodiversity as it applies to her experiences. The term neurodiversity was coined to describe variations in the human brain. This is also regarding mood, learning, attention, sociability, and other mental functions in a non-pathological sense. Many individuals on the spectrum have self soothing behaviors called “stims.” These repetitive actions help to calm nerves and soothe them during high stress situations.
“My goal in sharing these installations is about creating awareness of and being a conduit for interaction between neurotypical and neurodiverse people,” Nina Martine Robinson.
About Susan Hensel Gallery – Contemporary Art by Susan Hensel
Opened September 10th, 2004 Susan Hensel Gallery was a gallery/ workspace presenting 5-6 shows per year devoted to the concept of narrative in the arts in an intimate space, with hardwood floors and high tin ceilings. Additionally, the Susan Hensel Gallery is now both a window gallery on Cedar Avenue. This is the main thoroughfare in south Minneapolis and an online venture is also represented on Artsy.net. In March 2013, the interior space reverted to a working studio for Susan Hensel. This space allows her to continue to work on small and largescale artwork with an attitude. You can also find her current work at Susan Hensel Projects. The studio remains open to the public by appointment or chance, on Monday-Saturday, 10 am-5 pm. Additionally, you are welcome to drop by this gallery/workspace at any time.
