FROM NOFRILLS TO ALLFRILLS

Arts | April 13th, 2016

By Ben Haugmo

Form and function are both on display at the ‘A Woman’s Perspective’s: Aprons Galore!’ exhibit currently at the Hjemkomst Center.

The exhibit hosts hundreds of aprons from many different historical periods, demonstrating how the apron has evolved over time from a solely utilitarian garment to a platform for artistic expression.

Vicky Jo Bogart works as organizer and curator for the exhibit, and is familiar with the societal relevance the apron possesses.

“This exhibition depicts the apron as a historically and culturally significant textile and wearable,” said Bogart, “while presenting it as individual art pieces and as art installations. The process involves building an exhibit from an extensive collection of aprons used by people of all ages, with unusual and familiar styles, construction details and various messages.”

On display are aprons of all varieties. The different uses for the apron from different time periods are highlighted, as well as the various methods of sewing patterns onto aprons that have been incorporated over the years.

The exhibit is the culmination of private collections of aprons and recent additions to ‘Aprons Galore!’ by various contributors.

“These aprons were made by men, women, or children,” said Bogart, “some out of necessity, some in spirited fun or representing an event, organization or cause. It is a show of aprons, lots of them, displayed in categories or used as individual components for art installations such as the tiered curtain of chiffon hostess aprons, the green snow fence tree decked out in Christmas aprons, and the clothesline rainbow of colorful gingham aprons.”

The apron fell out of vogue in the 1960s, in part due to its representing the idea that a woman’s place was in the home, but also as a result of the rise of modern conveniences.

As time progressed and technology became more advanced, there was less need for aprons. Originally, the garment was intended to protect clothes from becoming needlessly dirty. Using washboards, wringer washers, and line drying took extra time and effort, so washing only the apron made the laundry process simpler. With the appearance of modern laundry machines and dryers, aprons were unnecessary.

Clothes could now be washed more easily and often.

However, the apron still finds practical use, in addition to its more recent application as an art piece.

“Aprons continue to be used daily in the food industry or trades, and as fashion, ceremonial or social statements,” said Bogart. “Take a look at Jennifer Lopez' American Idol performance on YouTube. The apron is used as part of her music video statement.”

From antique to contemporary, from weaving to patchwork, or from nononsense chef’s smocks to art aprons looking to make a statement, ‘Aprons Galore!’ is certain to feature something to intrigue everyone.

IF YOU GO

Aprons Galore!

Hjemkomst Center, 202 1st Ave N, Moorhead

March 22 through June 20

Reception & Talk Tuesday, April 19, 47 pm

Admission free of charge

INFO: http://www.hcscconline.org/