Knowing the Ropes Explores the Textile Through a New Lens

It’s so easy to take what we view as utilitarian for granted. That electric cord turns the television on when plugged in. A light bulb makes it easier to see when it’s dark outside. Our clothes are made from cotton. What happens when everyday products and materials are explored on a deeper level? In Knowing the Ropes, designers Brynhildur Pálsdóttir, Thuridur Rós Sigurthórsdóttir, and Theresa Himmer examined rope in a thoroughly Scandinavian context.

Braiding machine at Aarhus Possementfabrik \\\ Photo courtesy Knowing the Ropes

In this project, the rope has both cultural and structural meaning and is centered around two production facilities: Hampidjan in Reykjavík, Iceland and Aarhus Possementfabrik in Denmark. Both have been in business since the early 20th century and use nearly identical machinery. However, their rope is used for two very different industries: interiors and the sea. There is an overlap, which is what the three Nordic artists have focused upon by creating objects with unexpected aesthetic and functional qualities.

Early concept sketch \\\ Image courtesy Knowing the Ropes

Knowing the Ropes began back in 2017 for Pálsdóttir, Sigurthórsdóttir, and Himmer, eventually becoming a publication and a collection of objects and video at the Reykjavík Art Museum in 2021. Now, the artists have taken the evolved project to one of the best preserved examples of a victorian home at the turn of the 20th century – Hallwyl Museum in Stockholm. The overtly ornate space is a virtual palace, with the addition of the Knowing the Ropes exhibition adding an unexpectedly modern turn.

Photo courtesy Knowing the Ropes

Light 1, 2 \\\ Photo: Benita Marcussen

Detail of Light 1, 2 \\\ Photo: Benita Marcussen

Pedestal 1, 2 \\\ Photo: Benita Marcussen

Detail of Pedestal 1, 2 \\\ Photo: Benita Marcussen

Standing Mirror \\\ Photo: Benita Marcussen

Detail of Standing Mirror \\\ Photo: Benita Marcussen

Table \\ Photo: Benita Marcussen

Detail of Table \\ Photo: Benita Marcussen

Vitrine I and II \\\ Photo: Benita Marcussen

Detail of Vitrine I and II \\\ Photo: Benita Marcussen

Detail of Vitrine I and II \\\ Photo: Benita Marcussen

Photo: Iris Dogg Einarsdottir

To learn more about Knowing the Ropes, visit hallwylskamuseet.se.

Kelly Beall is senior editor at Furnit Decor. The Pittsburgh-based graphic designer and writer has had a deep love of art and design for as long as she can remember, and enjoys sharing her finds with others. When undistracted by great art and design, she can be found making a mess in the kitchen, consuming as much information as possible, or on the couch with her three pets. Find her @designcrush on social.

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