Tensile Treaty - Location 2

Backstrap weaving is an ancient form of weaving used in many cultures around the world. The loom which simply consists of a combination of sticks, is portable and serves a nomadic life style, as it can be set up and used almost anywhere. The warp (the lengthwise threads on the loom) is stretched between a stationary post or a tree and a dowel that is attached with a strap around the weaver's back. Throughout the weaving process of inserting the weft (the widthwise threads of the textile), the weaver controls the tension of the warp with her body by leaning forwards or backwards.

The two weavers, Cynthia Martin, a Mi’kmaq artist from the Millbrook Reserve, and Anke Fox, a landed immigrant originally from Germany, will be weaving together on a backstrap loom, replacing the stationary post with a second weaver and working towards each other. This unusual and innovative collaborative process of weaving requires the willingness to stand strong and work together in unison with respect for and trust of one another. It requires that the weavers attentively tune into each other, perceive each other's subtle body movements and respond accordingly to hold the necessary tensility to weave a strong and beautiful textile.

The Marten&Fox duo will weave at different locations throughout the city on warps that represent Sky, Water and the Earth, the elements we walk under, drink of, and wander on. The natural, tightly spun wool warps will be carefully prepared and hand-dyed to reflect the colours of the elements.

The public is invited to participate in the project by considering the questions: “Where Are Your Ancestors From?” and “What do you love about Mi’kma’ki?” The audience will be encouraged to write their feelings and thoughts on strips of fabric that will be woven into the cloth.

It is the artists' hope that the project will engage the public in honest conversations about colonialism, our land, and the relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people.

The weaving process stands as a metaphor for the recognition and respect that is necessary to establish a healthy, reciprocal relationship, which is one of the key elements to reconciliation.