Francoise Danoy: Weaving a Tapestry of Tradition

*Mana Wahine Ono,* Punch Needle, 8" diameter

*Mana Wahine Rua,* Punch Needle, 8" diameter

*Two Crashing Waves,* Punch Needle and Weaving, 8" diameter

*Mana Wahine Whitu,* Punch Needle, 8" diameter

*Huatanganga Pullover,* colorwork knitting

Françoise Danoy is a textile fiber artist whose unique background and cultural heritage inform her work in captivating and meaningful ways. Born to a Franco-Māori family in Australia and raised in America, Françoise's diverse background has given her a unique perspective on the world and a rich tapestry of experiences to draw from in her work.

How did your creative journey begin?

My journey into the world of creativity began at the hands of a simple yet magical act – observing my mum knitting a stockinette cowl. To my then inexperienced eyes, the transformation of mere sticks and string into a tangible object was nothing short of enchanting. I recall thinking, How does taking two sticks and string create something like that?! Living with my parents at the time, as I waited for my US citizenship with aspirations of moving to Japan, I yearned for something to occupy my hands and mind. I turned to my mother and asked, “Mum, can you teach me how to knit?” Little did I know, this question would pivotally change the trajectory of my life. I crafted my first stitches on January 2nd, 2014. As I progressed, I was consumed by a vision: knitting pieces adorned with traditional Māori motifs. My skills were nascent, my understanding of the motifs shallow, yet the fire of determination was ignited.

Where do you find inspiration for your work?

Every piece I create is not just a testament to my journey back to my cultural roots, but also a reflection of the deep connection I feel with my heritage. Each design I craft is like a thread that weaves together the rich tapestry of Māori stories and traditions. Through the art of knitting, I am able to channel these stories into intricate patterns, giving them new life and meaning. It is through this transformative medium that I am able to retell my personal stories, share the wisdom of my ancestors, and reconstruct my cultural identity. With every stitch, I am reminded of the resilience and beauty of my heritage, and I hope that my work can inspire others to connect with their own cultural roots and celebrate the power of storytelling through art.

How has your work evolved over the last few years?

As my proficiency in knitting grew and my techniques diversified, I found more avenues to articulate myself. As I delved deeper into my heritage, my narratives became more nuanced and layered. 2022 heralded a significant transition for me: from knitwear design to a broader realm of fiber arts, with a spotlight on punch needle. This medium resonates with my passion for drawing and digital art, recalling aspirations from my younger days of wanting to be a manga-ka (Japanese comic book artist). Punch needle, with its union of fiber and indigenous storytelling, has carved a new canvas for my expressions. Presently, I am honing a signature style while also relishing the liberty to experiment.

What does a typical day in the studio look like for you, and how has your art practice grown or changed?

Juggling multiple roles, such as working at a remote start-up, freelancing, and running my art studio, has taught me the importance of effective time and project management. In order to make the most of my creative potential, I have implemented efficient systems and processes that allow me to maximize my output. Despite the busy nature of my schedule, I prioritize my art by dedicating at least 90 minutes three times a week to my creative practice. Additionally, I reserve my weekends for handling administrative tasks and ensuring the smooth operation of my art studio. This approach has enabled me to not only maintain consistency in my artistic journey but also strive for long-term sustainability and growth.

Which experiences have impacted your work as an artist?

Between the years 2019 and 2022, I embarked on a journey filled with a wide range of emotions. This tumultuous period of my life was marked by various personal challenges, including going through a divorce, navigating the aftermath of an emotionally abusive friendship, and experiencing professional burnout as a knitwear designer. Amidst the depths of my grief, I also confronted and triumphed over a phase of depression, which was diagnosed as PMDD. It was during this incredibly transformative phase that I stumbled upon punch needle. Just like when I first discovered knitting, my initial encounter with punch needle sparked a flood of inspiration and imagination. This newfound medium presented itself as a fresh and exciting path in my creative journey, allowing me to express myself through storytelling in a whole new way. No matter whether I find myself immersed in sorrow or floating in pure joy, my emotions, which are further intensified by my Pisces sun sign, always find their way into my work. They infuse every stitch, every loop, and every creation I bring to life, making my art a true reflection of my innermost feelings.

How has social media impacted your work?

Instagram was instrumental in carving a niche for me in the knitting world. However, of late, my engagement with the platform has dwindled. Battling its ever-changing algorithms can be draining. Currently, I opt for a more laid-back approach, sharing my creations while simultaneously building my portfolio and reaching out directly to prospective patrons. I'm an advocate for simplicity, and often, I find that social media tends to muddle things.

What inspires you most about your cultural heritage?

It's a challenge to pinpoint a singular source of inspiration from my cultural heritage because, in essence, it's all-encompassing. If I had to narrow it down, I'd say it's the philosophies and teachings passed down through generations. The cultural customs, protocols, and profound wisdom guide my creative odyssey and shape my worldview.

Website: www.francoisedanoy.com

Instagram: @francoise.danoy

Victoria FryNovember 9, 2023