Rowen Schussheim-Anderson
Davenport, Iowa
Artist Rowen Schussheim-Anderson weaves contemporary tapestries with centuries-old techniques enriched by modern elements. She studied at the Rochester Institute of Technology's School for American Crafts, where influential mentors shaped her artistic foundation. Her intricate works often take months to complete, blending wool, silk, cotton, nylon, and rayon yarns into richly textured surfaces. Inspired by patterns in nature, butterflies, and maps, Rowen creates dynamic pieces on a four-harness floor loom in her spacious home studio. Beyond her practice, she enjoys time with friends and family, solving word puzzles, and teaching art to children. Rowen’s tapestries have been exhibited internationally and are part of permanent collections at institutions such as IBM and the U.S. Department of State.
Artist Statement
I weave tapestries.
I work in much the same way they have been woven for hundreds of years: weft threads intersect warp threads, and images emerge as the colors of the yarn shift. While I use centuries-old techniques, I also introduce new elements. Grids offer structure, and organic patterns—like curvilinear labyrinths—impose order on the abstract. Texture and color are always central, and incorporating beads opens up new possibilities.
I use varied techniques to push the boundaries of traditional tapestry. Rich surfaces form through blending textured yarns. Like collage, the process layers, synthesizes, and weaves together an interplay of pattern, surface, and color.
My newest work explores color and movement. I am drawn to shape and perspective, especially forms moving in space or overlapping across planes. While weaving cloth, I find myself resonating with Abstract Expressionism, aiming to create depth through strong contrasts and a wide range of warm and cool hues. I produce my tapestries on a four-harness floor loom, with linen warp and weft made of wool, silk, cotton, and rayon.
I work in much the same way they have been woven for hundreds of years: weft threads intersect warp threads, and images emerge as the colors of the yarn shift. While I use centuries-old techniques, I also introduce new elements. Grids offer structure, and organic patterns—like curvilinear labyrinths—impose order on the abstract. Texture and color are always central, and incorporating beads opens up new possibilities.
I use varied techniques to push the boundaries of traditional tapestry. Rich surfaces form through blending textured yarns. Like collage, the process layers, synthesizes, and weaves together an interplay of pattern, surface, and color.
My newest work explores color and movement. I am drawn to shape and perspective, especially forms moving in space or overlapping across planes. While weaving cloth, I find myself resonating with Abstract Expressionism, aiming to create depth through strong contrasts and a wide range of warm and cool hues. I produce my tapestries on a four-harness floor loom, with linen warp and weft made of wool, silk, cotton, and rayon.
Artist Background
Arizona State University
Master of Fine Arts, 1980
Rochester Institute of Technology
Bachelor of Fine Arts, 1974
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