Weaving Wonders: Finding Artistic Inspiration at Fogo Island Inn

The salt-laced wind whipped around me as the late afternoon light diffused through the thick October clouds. Landing on Fogo Island felt like stepping onto the edge of the world. The stark white silhouette of the Fogo Island Inn, a beacon against the rugged coastline, stood in sharp contrast to the grey, weathered rocks and the churning Atlantic. The air, thick with the scent of salt and damp earth, filled my lungs, a potent cocktail of raw, untamed beauty. It was a contemplative, almost serene arrival.
The Inn's architecture immediately captivated me. Its angular design, reminiscent of the glacial icebergs that once graced these waters, seemed to grow organically from the landscape. Perched on stilts, much like the traditional Newfoundland fishing stages that dot the coastline, it felt both grounded and ethereal, a testament to human ingenuity harmonizing with the powerful forces of nature. I knew instantly that this place, the Fogo Island Inn, would inspire a new rug hooking piece.
Inspiration from Ice and Stone
My artistic process always begins with immersion. I need to feel the place, to absorb its essence. On Fogo Island, the inspiration was immediate and overwhelming. The geometric precision of the Inn’s windows, like meticulously crafted frames, showcased the ever-changing tapestry of the tundra. Heather, moss, and lichen painted the landscape in muted tones of greens, browns, and purples – a palette both subtle and deeply resonant.
The way the light filtered through the Inn’s expansive windows was particularly striking. Long shadows danced across the natural wood floors, creating a sense of warmth and intimacy within the vastness of the surrounding landscape. I found myself drawn to the play of light and shadow, the interplay of sharp angles and soft textures, all echoing the spirit of Newfoundland fishing stages. These stages, simple yet functional structures, are integral to the island’s history and culture, and the Inn’s design cleverly pays homage to them.
Sourcing the Soul of the Island
Material selection is crucial to my work. I believe in using locally sourced materials whenever possible, honoring the land and its resources. For this Fogo Island inspired piece, I delved into my collection of wool, carefully selecting shades that mirrored the island’s muted tones. I use natural dyes derived from plants and minerals, creating subtle variations in color that capture the nuances of the landscape.
Sustainability is also paramount. I incorporate recycled fabrics into my rugs, giving new life to discarded materials. But it was the coarse, undyed wool that truly resonated with me. Its raw, unrefined texture spoke of the island's untamed beauty, its resilience in the face of harsh conditions. It felt like holding a piece of Fogo Island in my hands.
The Rhythmic Dance of the Hook
The rug hooking process itself is deeply meditative. With the burlap stretched taut on my frame, I began the rhythmic motion of pulling loops of wool through the backing. The tactile experience of working with the materials, the steady thwack of the hook, the gradual emergence of the design – it's a process that grounds me, allowing me to connect with the creative energy of the place.
Each loop is a tiny act of translation, transforming the landscape into an abstract tapestry. I focused on capturing the geometric forms of the Inn’s windows, the undulating lines of the coastline, and the subtle gradations of color in the tundra.
A Tapestry of Place
The finished rug is more than just a piece of art; it's a tangible representation of my experience at Fogo Island Inn. The colors evoke the muted tones of the tundra – heather, moss, lichen, and the grey-blue of the ocean under a cloudy sky. The texture is varied, with some areas densely packed with loops, mimicking the dense vegetation, and others more sparse, creating a sense of depth and dimension.
The abstract shapes hint at the Inn's architecture, the angular lines softened by the organic forms of the surrounding landscape. It’s a piece that invites touch, a tactile reminder of the wind, the rocks, and the raw beauty of Fogo Island.
More Than Just a Stay
The Fogo Island Inn is more than just a luxurious hotel; it's a cultural and environmental sanctuary. I was deeply impressed by the Inn's commitment to using locally sourced materials, from the hand-crafted furniture to the exquisite meals prepared with ingredients from the island's gardens and surrounding waters.
The Inn's support of the Shorefast Foundation, which promotes economic and cultural resilience in the Fogo Island region, is truly commendable. This dedication to preserving the island's heritage and supporting its community is woven into every aspect of the Inn's design and operation. The interior design, with its natural wood finishes, handcrafted furniture, and expansive windows offering panoramic views, reinforces the connection between the Inn and its environment.
My time at the Fogo Island Inn was not only a luxurious and comfortable stay, but a deeply inspiring experience that enriched my artistic practice and strengthened my connection to the natural world. It reminded me of the power of place, the importance of sustainability, and the beauty of handcrafted artistry.
If you’re looking for a way to support the local community and preserve traditional craft techniques, I encourage you to explore the beautiful artisan rugs available at Fogo Island Workshop. Each purchase directly supports the talented artisans of Fogo Island and helps to keep their traditions alive.