Alexandria Masse (m-AH-see) (she/her) (b. 2000) is an artist that often works with textiles and fibres to construct wearable art. She was born and raised in Windsor, ON. Masse moved to Halifax, NS for a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Textiles/Fashion with a Minor in Art History from NSCAD University. She has since returned to Windsor to reconnect with her family and find inspiration in the environment and city she was raised in.
Masse is a visionary artist who reshapes the boundaries of textile and fiber art, crafting immense soft sculptures that bridge the realms of imagination and reality. Her medium is not just fiber and fabric, but the very essence of childhood wonder and cultural legacy. Her artistic journey is a testament to the transformative power of imagination and the enduring strength of tradition. With a mastery of sewing, knitting, and crochet, she brings to life the creatures of her mind, weaving childhood nostalgia with contemporary experiences. Drawing inspiration from the world's wonders, from insects to everyday encounters, Masse transforms familiar elements into larger-than-life forms, inviting viewers to rediscover the ordinary in extraordinary ways.
Masse's fascination with fiber and fabric began as a child, where she discovered the endless possibilities of manipulation through sewing, knitting, and crochet. As she honed her skills, she realized that these seemingly mundane materials held the key to unlocking the fantastical creatures that inhabited her imagination.
As a woman in the world of craft, Masse is no stranger to challenges. She constantly finds herself pushing against the boundaries of what is considered "traditional" or "acceptable," challenging the preconceived notions of textiles and craft. For her, the act of creating giant soft sculptures is not just about making art—it's about reclaiming her place in a male-dominated industry and celebrating the often-overlooked skills of women. Masse infuses her work with the rich tapestry of her mother's traditions and the rhythms of her own backyard. In her quest to reclaim her cultural identity, Masse also grapples with the complexities of racial imposter syndrome. Through her art, she seeks to not only honour her heritage but also to challenge the stereotypes and prejudices that exist within craft. By incorporating elements of her mother's culture into her work, she not only finds solace but also a strength that shines through in every meticulously crafted stitch. By intertwining crochet and sewing techniques passed down through generations, she honours the matriarchal lineage of craft in her family, forging connections that span time and space.
Using 100% Canadian Wool and reclaimed textile waste, Masse not only creates stunning art but also champions sustainability and local craftsmanship. Every piece is infused with the essence of hand-dyed wool, sourced and nurtured with care, reflecting her deep respect for materials and their origins.
Masse's art transcends mere sculptures; it's a testament to resilience, creativity, and the enduring legacy of women in craft. With each stitch, she weaves a narrative of empowerment, reclaiming her place in the artistic landscape and inspiring others to see the world through a new, softer lens.
(Image by Ashley Cline)