The Pfister Hotel in downtown Milwaukee has named Timothy Westbrook, an emerging fiber artist from New York, as its fourth artist in residence. Westbrook will move to Milwaukee for the opportunity and will work in the Pfister’s studio space beginning in April.
“I am honored by the invitation to spend a year developing my artistic voice in this unique setting,” said Westbrook. “While at The Pfister, I plan to weave cloth out of various organic and repurposed manmade materials, including items like cassette tapes, sculpting them into costumes and fashion while pulling from the inspiration of the hotel and the Victorian Decorative Arts period. I am excited to watch my weaving and costumes evolve under the inspiration of the artistic energy in Milwaukee and in the hotel.”
Westbrook was drawn to the Pfister by the artistic and historical reputation of Milwaukee, he said. Westbrook replaces current Pfister artist Shelby Keefe. He will remain at the hotel for one year.
Westbrook is a recent graduate from Syracuse University. He’s a fiber artist that focuses on costume, performance and installation art. He uses fairytale themes as an environmentalist analogy and implements sustainable studio practices by using re-purposed materials for his work along with low-impact equipment including a non-electric treadle sewing machine.
“We’re thrilled to welcome our first out-of-state artist to the program,” says Joe Kurth, general manager of The Pfister Hotel. “The program has been gaining national attention in the last couple of years and we’re proud it has attracted talent like Timothy’s. Selected through the juried panel process based on his impressive skill, engaging personality and unique point of view, we’re eager to introduce him and his work to our guests.”
Westbrook was one of six finalists included in the public voting period, which ended last week. In addition to the public vote via Facebook, Twitter, and in-person ballots, a selection committee, consisting of leaders in the local art community, made the final decision in choosing the next artist in residence.
