How is wonder created? Is it a spark of genius suddenly touched off within the mind of the artist? Perhaps, but usually it happens 
through hard work and research. It’s discovering the right themes and subjects that can expand into visual metaphors. And somethings that involves weaving the threads of history together in unforeseen patterns, textures and colors. Weaving Wonder with Historical Threads is about that very journey from wonder to wisdom.
Our latest exhibit explores the work of international artist Janet Echelman. She creates organic, aerial sculptures that float high above the viewer’s heads. Her art is ever shifting with air currents and surrounding light. These works have been seen in cities as wide ranging as London, Amsterdam, Singapore and Washington, DC. Greensboro joins that impressive list this summer with her latest, Where We Met. But what the heck does it all mean?
This is the point where art and history intersect and the story Weaving Wonder tells. As you enter the exhibit past walls of clouds and glowing panels, you find a large, mirrored table. Above hangs a colorful woven model of her LaBauer Park sculpture. Now look down. Look into that mirrored surface revealing a true viewport into Janet’s art. You are now essentially looking up over sixty feet into the air. Wow!
As you move around this central piece, take a moment and discover how Ms. Echelman’s artistic journey progressed from studying native seedpods to researching historic maps of the North Carolina Railroad system and Textile Industries. Hear Janet describe how she took that research, taped it on her office wall and began tracing an outline. 
That is when magic happened and the historical threads all came together. Just like the railroad tracks in our Gate City, here is where it all intersected. Here is Where We Met.
Now it’s your turn to discover and play. Search through our touch screen kiosk that provides a deep dive into the wealth of Public Art found throughout Greensboro. Finally, take a moment to weave together your own historical threads with our playful art interactive.
The creation of Janet’s sculpture began many years ago. It began with the builders and explorers of our state. It continued with the agents of change that fought through challenges to weave Greensboro into the city we know today. And it soars through the givers that generously provide us stunning works of public art and beautiful, fun parks. Greensboro and Where We Met are truly Wonders, woven together with Historical Threads… Ah-Ha!
