Wiregrass Museum of Art Receives Grant from Alabama Humanities Alliance for Groundbreaking Fiber Art Exhibition
DOTHAN, AL — July 25, 2025 — The Wiregrass Museum of Art (WMA) is pleased to announce the award of a $2,500 grant from the Alabama Humanities Alliance in support of its exhibition, CONSTRUCTIONS: Contemporary Fiber, on view from July 17 through December 27, 2025.
Guest curated by Paul Barrett, this innovative exhibition features work by 21 artists from across the United States, and internationally, exploring the diversity and complexity of contemporary fiber art. CONSTRUCTIONS will showcase artwork that ranges from the traditionally handmade to the technologically produced, incorporating weaving, sewing, dyes, printing, and found objects to tell personal and collective stories, repurpose materials, and expand the boundaries of the fiber arts genre.
The artists represented in the show bring a wide range of cultural and personal experiences, including first- and second-generation immigrants who speak Farsi, Japanese, Spanish, and Tamil. Their work reflects influences from diverse religious, cultural, and socioeconomic backgrounds, adding to the richness of the exhibition’s narrative. Many of the techniques and materials used—once considered outside the realm of fine art—are presented in a context that reclaims and affirms their artistic value.
“We’re honored to partner with the Alabama Humanities Alliance to bring conversations around contemporary fiber art to our community,” said Dana-Marie Lemmer, executive director of the Wiregrass Museum of Art. “This exhibition elevates voices and stories that often go unheard in traditional art spaces, and we’re proud to create a platform where artists and audiences can connect through shared histories, cultural narratives, and creative expression.”
With funding from the Alabama Humanities Alliance, WMA will supplement the exhibition with a series of scholar-led artist interviews and public talks, available for free in the museum and online. These interviews, conducted by Paul Barrett in collaboration with Dr. Kenyon Holder of Troy University, will provide critical insight into the artistic practices, cultural influences, and historical connections of featured artists.
CONSTRUCTIONS: Contemporary Fiber seeks not only to showcase the breadth of fiber-based artwork but also to reposition the genre within the larger art historical narrative, challenging outdated distinctions between craft and fine art.
For more information about WMA programs and upcoming events, visit www.wiregrassmuseum.org.
About the Wiregrass Museum of Art
Wiregrass Museum of Art inspires a lifelong appreciation for the visual arts by providing innovative educational programs that engage diverse audiences through the collection and exhibition of quality works. Since its inception in 1987, WMA has offered educational programs, nationally-acclaimed art exhibitions and community events throughout the year. Its Board of Trustees guides the long-term vision and strategic goals, while its membership, City and County support, and grant funding provide the resources needed to fulfill its mission.
WMA’s galleries are open to the public every Wednesday through Friday from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. General admission is always free.
About the Alabama Humanities Alliance
The Alabama Humanities Alliance is a state affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities. The Alliance supports impactful programs across the state that engage the public with history, culture, and the humanities.
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