EUROTANGLE

by: Nina Martine Robinson

NEUROTANGLE

I am an emerging St. Paul-based contemporary textile artist whose creative process starts with a sewing machine.

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Neurotangle, created in 2019, is an early exploration into utilizing repurposed clothing as a metaphor for neurodiversity. In 2018, my 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 my son, it is the deconstruction of his pants. Consequently, I spend hours mending belt loops, pockets, and patching. My recent installation work is a response to this repetitive behavior. The deconstruction of the clothing and the repetitive stitching to create new forms is my expression of Autism and neurodiversity as it applies to my particular experiences.

The term neurodiversity was coined to describe variations in the human brain regarding mood, learning, attention, sociability, and other mental functions in a non-pathological sense. My goal in sharing these installations is about creating awareness of and being a conduit for interaction between neurotypical and neurodiverse people.

Susan Hensel Gallery

The focus of Susan Hensel Gallery is on compelling objects, meaningful use of materials, and engaging sculpture. It is a gallery where experimental ideas and works of the hand join to create unique sensory experiences. Opened September 10th, 2004 Susan Hensel Gallery is a gallery/ workspace presenting 5-6 shows per year in an intimate space, with hardwood floors and high tin ceilings. In 2013 the interior space reverted to a working studio for Susan Hensel where she continues to work on small and largescale artwork that engages both sculptural and cultural space. You can find her current work at www.SusanHenselProjects.com