Follow the Thread: Meet Maddie Tavernier

Maddie is new to our team of student assistants. This post is part of our tradition of having our new students introduce themselves to our blog audience. Welcome, Maddie!

Hello, my name is Maddie Tavernier. This is my first semester in the Textile Design program. I came to Jefferson to nurture my life-long love for textiles, to gain new technical skills, and to continue to develop myself as an artist and designer.

I am particularly interested in home textiles and creating functional but beautiful objects. For many years I have made one-of-a-kind home textiles, focusing primarily on handwoven and tufted rugs. Quilt patterns are often my design inspiration.

Before coming to Jefferson, I studied silk weaving in Laos. I received private instruction on traditional Lao silk weaving techniques from Kongthong Nanthavongdouangsy, a third-generation master weaver. Over the course of a week, I learned about silk production and dyeing, an overview of Lao textile production and its market, and received in-depth instruction on weaving with a focus on supplementary weft techniques.

I am so excited to be working at the Design Center. I love textiles (especially old ones), and I love organization. There are so many treasures at the Design Center! I’m looking forward to learning about textile conservation and helping document and archive the impressive collection.

When I’m not studying, you can probably find me in my garden, cooking, or on a walk with my husband and our dog Cookie. I’m happiest when I’m using my hands.