There is more than meets the eye with Dennis Alfred Phillips.  A textile artist who studied weaving in 1977, evolved to loom knitting in 1983, and reintroduced himself to Shibori dye techniques in 1999.

 

Some of Alfred’s’ clients describe him as a knitter whose work is exemplified by finely structured, controlled designs.  Others describe his silks and knits as organic and loose, with a balanced natural feeling!  “My work has been evolving from a formal, tailored image to a loose, flowing style.  My garments are still precise with a great deal of energy spent on the finishing.  The designs have taken on the influences of my surroundings.”  His surroundings are Southwest Wisconsin, an area attractive to many artists including Frank Lloyd Wright.  His home was designed by a student of Lloyd Wright.  “Living in this home and area, I feel the pull of naturalism and organics changing the focus of my work.”

 

Dennis Alfred Phillips began making custom knit clothing while living in Chicago.  His clients were professionals who wanted something that didn’t look like it came off the “rack”!  At the recommendation of his sister, he began labeling and signing everything with one name.  He chose his middle name “Alfred” for its strength and quality.  In 1991, after moving to rural Wisconsin, he was introduced to “Art to Wear” and “Fine Craft Shows” after meeting local fiber artists Sharon Nicholas and JorJan Borlin.  He has exhibited at shows in WI, MN, IL, IA, VA and CA.  He has also juried into Textile Exhibitions in IL and CA.  Along the way Alfred has won awards of Excellence and Best in Show.  From his travels he has been commissioned to make items for members of the British and Dutch Royal Families.  In 2002 a scarf of Alfred’s was personally accepted by Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II.  It was commissioned to commemorate her Golden Jubilee.  2002 to 2004 Alfred set up his studio, Studio 128, in Spring Green Wisconsin.  He worked cooperatively with 3 artists from Paper Loom Studio.  In May 2006 he moved to a single unit in Spring Green where he is concentrating on new designs and the fine art, fine craft show circuit.

 

Dennis acknowledges his avocation in textile arts.  Like many artists he has a second job.  He is a Flight Attendant who travels to Asia and Europe 9 – 14 days each month.  These travels enhance and provoke his creativity. 

 

“I have a degree in Elementary and Special Education.  During the degree process I studied weaving and dyeing.  Having been raised by a seamstress and tailor, I learned to sew, knit, crochet and draft in my early years.  I still have the machine and many of the needles and hooks I was taught with.  My craft and art is ArtWear with Spirit!  I approach each piece as an individual.  Using different techniques, fibers and fabrics, I find each stitch, fold, pleat and touch with color creates a unique and personal garment.”