Pioneer Public Tv, a cornerstone of community broadcasting in southern Minnesota, has captivated audiences for years with its enriching program, Postcards. This long-standing series is dedicated to showcasing the diverse tapestry of art, history, and cultural heritage found in western Minnesota and beyond through short, engaging documentaries. Recently, Postcards turned its lens to the world of weaving, featuring three distinct artists in their unique environments: Christine Novotny, nestled in the northern woods of Grand Marais, Minnesota; Laura Demuth, working her craft on a picturesque farm in Decorah, Iowa; and Robbie LaFleur, an urban weaver based in the city. This article delves into Robbie LaFleur’s personal journey as a first-time documentary subject for Pioneer Public TV, while also offering a glimpse into the captivating stories of her fellow weavers.
The experience began when Dana Conroy, Kristofor Gieske, and Ben Dempcy from Pioneer Public TV visited Robbie LaFleur’s Minneapolis studio in February. What unfolded was an immersive six-hour film shoot, transforming LaFleur into a “star for a day.” The professionalism and camaraderie of the Pioneer Public TV team made the unfamiliar process enjoyable. LaFleur recounts the novelty of documentary filming techniques, such as the “beauty walk,” where she strolled along the sidewalk while being filmed from the side. She was also asked to perform a series of expressions for the camera, a task she found surprisingly challenging, humorously noting the disconnect between supermodel poses and the world of tapestry weaving.
Robbie LaFleur during filming with Pioneer Public TV for "Postcards"
LaFleur engaged in extensive interviews, speaking for over two hours across various settings in her studio and at the Weavers Guild of Minnesota. The filming process left her pondering what aspects of her words and studio would make the final cut. The resulting 12-minute film premiered to an audience of friends and family. Initially apprehensive, LaFleur chose to watch it with loved ones, including her grandchildren. The children were amused to recognize their home on television, while the adults praised the film’s quality. Humorous moments, like the “beauty walk” shots, were met with laughter and recognition. The film crew’s detailed portrayal of her studio space, capturing her bookcases and rolled weavings, was particularly well-received.
Adding to the quintessential “Minnesota” viewing experience, the Postcards segment was followed by a clip from the “Lutefisk Eating Contest.” This segment, showcasing participants consuming copious amounts of lutefisk, a traditional Scandinavian dish, proved both amusing and slightly unsettling, especially for the younger viewers unfamiliar with the delicacy.
LaFleur expressed sincere gratitude to Dana, Ben, and Kris from Pioneer Public TV, acknowledging their dedication and creativity in crafting her segment. Her only minor critique was a lighthearted reflection on the unavoidable passage of time as captured on film.
Kristofor Gieske, Robbie LaFleur, and Dana Conroy from Pioneer Public TV in Robbie's Minneapolis studioPostcards also featured Christine Novotny, a weaver based in Grand Marais, Minnesota. Novotny, who transitioned from painting to weaving, discussed her artistic journey and her experience studying rug weaving in Sweden. She highlighted the structured creativity that weaving provides, contrasting it with the boundless freedom of painting. Currently, Novotny is an artist in residence at the American Swedish Institute, showcasing her new collection.
Laura Demuth, the third weaver featured, resides and works on a farm in Decorah, Iowa. LaFleur playfully takes credit for Demuth’s participation in Postcards, having encouraged her to embrace the opportunity due to her weaving expertise and the visually appealing farm setting, complete with sheep. Demuth shared anecdotes about the filming process, including a humorous incident involving a drone startling her sheep. The Postcards segment beautifully captures the sheep frolicking, unaware of their unintended performance.
Demuth, a seasoned knitter, spinner, and weaver, eloquently spoke about the significance of handcraft in the face of fast fashion. She emphasized the disconnect between contemporary textiles and their origins, advocating for a deeper understanding of the processes and materials involved in clothing production. Demuth’s insightful commentary touched upon the environmental impact of synthetic materials and the value of appreciating the labor, care, and creativity inherent in handmade textiles. She suggests that engaging with handcraft is both a joyful and rebellious act, reclaiming a connection to the creation of our clothing.
Pioneer Public TV’s Postcards series, through these weaver segments, shines a light on the artistry and dedication of craftspeople in the region. By bringing these stories to the forefront, Pioneer Public TV continues to enrich its viewers’ understanding and appreciation of local culture and artistic expression. The series serves as a valuable resource, connecting communities with the often-unseen talents within their reach and fostering a deeper appreciation for the arts.
