Find out what ‘potato dextrin resist’ really is

CORVALLIS — An exhibit of Mary Pedersen’s art titled “A Lot of Chaos, A Little Control” is on view at the Oregon State University Women’s Center through June 30. Corvallis resident Hazel O’Rear Reeves will also be represented.

Pederson uses an unusual textile patterning technique referred to as “potato dextrin resist” to achieve the look of her pieces. Potato dextrin is remarkable because as it dries, it produces crack patterns reminiscent of fractal patterning commonly found in nature. Potato dextrin as a resist was introduced to American textile artists and designers in 1995.

When Pedersen first saw “fractals” on a garment she was immediately impressed with the aesthetic possibilities for her own textile work. In her artwork she uses dyes and various resist techniques on textiles. She has created yardage for apparel and interiors, but her current work is fine art. Pederson is an instructor in the OSU Department of Design and Human Environment.

Reeves selects finishes and colors for office buildings. For the past 10 years, her professional life has taken her all around the world designing offices and sustainable design projects. About three years ago, she decided that she wanted to start painting again. Her artwork speaks to women and their roles in this world.

Local artists interested in exhibiting work at the Women’s Center in the future should contact Beth Rietveld at beth.rietveld@oregonstate.edu or call 737-3186.