NORMA SMAYDA
ARTIST SPOTLIGHT | WEAVERS GUILD OF RHODE ISLAND
BIOGRAPHY
Norma Smayda learned to weave in Norway, gaining a strong foundation in weave structure, fiber properties, and color theory. She earned an MFA in Visual Design from Southeastern Massachusetts University-Dartmouth. Smayda is the author of two books on weaving: Weaving Designs by Bertha Gray Hayes (2009) and Ondulé Textiles (2017), both published by Schiffer Publishing Ltd. She has also written numerous articles and is active in giving lectures and workshops, as well as juried and curated fiber exhibitions.
VISION
Norma Smayda’s work features a cannellé weave structure that evokes the shapes of waves, tide marks on the sand, and sea shells. The color palette is inspired by sea foam, sandy beaches, and the hues of various shells. The use of textured yarns to outline the shell shapes enhances the connection to sea foam, adding depth and dimension to the piece.
Learn more about the artists behind our collection of over 200 weavings at Newport Harbor Island Resort!