About Me.

I create artworks that deal with ritual, heritage, and the in-between spaces of the physical and psychological. I do this in a variety of series, but they all have a connecting thread of soft materials. 
In my Dream Yarn series I use ink and paper to draw invisible creatures that help our world. These drawings and papers are filled with hopes and dreams. Then invoking the fates I spin this paper into yarn, to actualize the hopes and dreams into reality. The yarn holds infinite possibilities, when it is balled up it holds energy. The balled yarn has the potential to be anything that is ready for us to explore. When the yarn is woven its potential has been fulfilled. With the process of spinning and weaving I am connecting with my heritage and the labor of my foremothers. I am finding ritual and connection through this process while I spin loved ones hopes and dreams into potential.
In my Anxiety Weavings series, threads intertwine and bind domestic materials. The quiet meditation of weaving allows me to transfer my emotional tension and anxiety into the threads. Organizing yarn as I organize my thoughts and sooth my mental health. The titles capture the negative thoughts that ruminate in my mind when anxious and depressed. The weavings are combined with domestic materials. Exploring home as self, and a contemplative and dynamic space and shining a light on the neglected labor of “women’s work”. 
In my Weaving Worlds series, the language, tools and forms of textile production aid in the magic and ritual of my world building. The world that is being built is of the inbetween, and explores that small overlooked natural wonders of the world. It is the inbetween of the physical and psychological worlds, the moments of imagination and misinterpretation of our physical world. I use repetitive processes, soft materials, and the forms of yarn to create this world. The friends in the inbetween are created with inks, paints,paper, fabrics, threads and yarn. The sculptural forms show the potential and magic that is stored in the forms of textile production, such as a cone of yarn and fabric on a loom. 
In my Personality Totems series, in my hands' personas are spawned from paint, paper, nostalgic craft supplies, and cosmetics. These personalities are unfamiliar to me- but I want to understand them. I conjure up fantastical creatures that plead with viewers to come closer, to examine their beauty, as well as their repulsion. They reflect human personas by honoring facets of our personalities while aggressively displaying absurdity to provoke our empathy. Alluring color, textures and rich materials work together to showcase each creature’s persona while drawing on the viewer’s curiosity to engage with the work.
Kyla Crawford is an artist and educator, she earned her BFA in painting and fibers and a BS in Art Education in Metro Detroit. After moving to Houston, TX she continued her arts education by completing her Master of Fine Arts and joining local guilds. Where she started to explore ritual, heritage, and exploring the in-between space of the physical and psychological in her art works through the process of drawing, spinning, and weaving. She also started an indie yarn dying business, Kyla’s Lab: Textile Arts and Accessories, and teaching at the postsecondary level. She has had art works show multiple times at The Houston Center for Contemporary Crafts and works collected by Lester Marks. She designed an adjustable loom that her dad manufactures and works as a weaving consultant, designer, and educator for Sketchlooms.com. She has taught fiber classes and workshops with the Contemporary Handweavers of Houston, HGA’s Convergence, the Medow’s Museum and the Dallas Handweavers and Spinners Guild. Presently, she expresses her need to spread the love of art to others by teaching at University of North Texas, Dallas College, and Collin College, in the Dallas area. She is also shows her art in various exhibitions around the DFW metroplex and nationally.


CV

GALLERY SHOWINGS
2024
Woven Together 2024, Aver-Phillips Art Gallery, Dallas TX
Inkwell, 500x Annex, Irving TX
HGA’s Leaders Exhibition, Century II Performing Arts & Convention Center, Wichita KS
The Thread of Our Lives, The ArtCenter of Plano, Plano TX

2023
The Art of Process, Elgin Street Studios, Houston TX

2022
Hot and Sweaty, Gallery X500 Dallas TX
Faculty Art Show, PISD, Plano TX
Texas Now, Artspace111, TX
Convergence, Knoxville TN
 
2021
Weave Houston, Houston Contemporary Craft Center, Houston TX
 
2020
Materials 2, d’Art Center, Norfolk, VA
Works On Paper, The Long Beach Island Foundation of the Arts & Sciences, Loveladies NJ
TEXT/ile, Gallery 114 Portland OR
Assistance League of Houston Celebrates Texas Art 2020, KBR Tower, Houston TX
 
2019
Yellow Rose Fiber Fiesta, Sequin TX
Houston Fiber Festival, Cypress TX
Stitches United, Atlanta GA
Kid N’ Ewe, Kerrville TX
 
2018
Assistance League of Houston Celebrates Texas Art 2018, Williams Tower Gallery, Houston TX
Yellow Rose Fiber Fiesta, Sequin TX
Houston Fiber Festival, Cypress TX
Stitches Midwest, Schulenburg IL
Rendezvous, Goldmark Cultural Center, Dallas TX
 
2017
36th Annual Orange Show Gala, Crown Plaza NRG, Houston TX
Your Presents is Required, Zoya Tommy Gallery, Houston TX
The 39th Master of Fine Arts Thesis Exhibition, Blaffer, Houston TX
Houston Fiber Festival, Cypress TX
 
2016
Craft Texas 16, Houston Contemporary Craft Center, Houston TX
University of Houston School of Art Annual Student Show, Blaffer, Houston TX
Obsessive Repetitive, 3rd Space Gallery, Houston TX
Houston Fiber Festival, Cypress TX
 
2015
University of Houston School of Art Annual Student Show, Blaffer, Houston TX
Houston Fiber Festival, Cypress TX
 
2013
Blue Bird Sale, Blue Bird Circle, Houston TX
Interwoven V, 18 Hands Gallery, Houston TX
CHH Sale, Guild House, Houston TX
Fulshear Art walk, Fulshear TX
Arts and Drafts, Rays Grill, Fulshear TX
 
2012
Interwoven IV, 18 Hands Gallery, Houston TX
Art Teachers Show, The Art Institute, Troy MI
 
2010
Washington Historical Craft show, Washington Historical Museum, Washington MI
Wonderful Observation, The Belmont, Hamtramck MI
Handspun Revolution, Galleri Zink, Lillehammer Norway
 
2009
Mailed 2.0, Anton Art Center, Mount Clemens MI
5th Annual Fiber Arts Show, Heritage Spinning and Weaving, Lake Orion MI
Access, Belle Isle, Detroit MI
Dally In the Ally, Art Fair, Detroit MI
Consignment Pieces, LunaChick, Cambridge MD
Access, Belle Isle, Detroit MI
Algonac Culture Council Art Fair, Algonac MI
Richmond Summer Art Festival, Richmond MI
The Finale, The Bud, Detroit MI
Waynemania Undergraduate Exhibition, Community Arts Gallery, Detroit MI
Display, Romeo District Library, Washington MI
Fashion and Objects, The Bud, Detroit MI
 
2008
Art Education Student Exhibition, Community Arts Gallery, Detroit MI
Waynemania Undergraduate Exhibition, Community Arts Gallery, Detroit MI
 
2007
Art Education Student Exhibition, Community Arts Gallery, Detroit MI
Waynemania Undergraduate Exhibition, Community Arts Gallery, Detroit MI
 
2005
Waynemania Undergraduate Exhibition, Community Arts Gallery, Detroit MI
 
2004
1st Annual Fiber Arts Show, Heritage Spinning and Weaving, Lake Orion MI
Waynemania Undergraduate Exhibition, Community Arts Gallery, Detroit MI
 
2003
Waynemania Undergraduate Exhibition, Community Arts Gallery, Detroit MI
 
 
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
UNIVERSITY OF NORTH TEXAS: Denton, TX                                                                              8/2023 – Present
DALLAS COLLEGE: Richmond, TX                                                                             
8/2023 – Present
COLLIN COLLEGE: Farmersville, TX                                                                             
3/2021 – Present
UNIVERSITY OF HOUSTON: Houston, TX                                                                              8/2015 – 5/2021
ADJUNCT PROFESSOR: SCHOOL OF FINE ARTS (Sculpture Department/Selected Topics/Art Appreciation/Digital Arts and Tools/ Drawing 1/Digital Communication)
Planned, developed, and taught comprehensive inclusive lessons in multiple fine arts disciplines, including sculpture and fibers, to a highly diverse group of students while fostering creativity, expanding their mastery of the course content, and improving their craftsmanship.
 
Courses Taught
  • Digital Tools and Technologies for Creative Practices, Digital Communication for Art and Creative Entrepreneurship at University of North Texas
  • Drawing 1 at Dallas College
  • Art Appreciation at Collin College
§Fundamentals of Sculpture, Intermediate Sculpture, Select Topics: Introduction to Fiber Arts, Select Topics: Intermediate Fibers at University of Houston
Highlighted Achievements
§Designed, Introduced, and Launched a New Fibers Course that Consistently Holds 100% Enrollment.
  • Achieved Superior Feedback Scores by fostering a nurturing, expressive, and collaborative learning environment while building positive student relationships, promoting academic excellence, and empowering each student to exceed their artistic and educational goals.
  • Led a Complete Overhaul of the Semester Lesson Plans (from on-premise to distance learning) in an aggressive timeline to meet the government regulations following COVID-19.
  • Recognized for Superior Performance with Increased Scope of Responsibilities and Advanced Roles. Previous positions included Teaching Fellow and Studio Assistant: Sculpture Department.
  • Commended by Department Professors/Colleagues for contributing to an overall improvement in student craftsmanship, and digital tool useage.
§Recognized for Securing Equipment, Supplies, and Materials for the Sculpture Department at minimal/zero costs.
Highlighted Responsibilities
  • Designed Student-Focused Curriculums, Lesson Plans, Course Content, and Syllabi using a myriad of delivery methods (lectures, individual/group activities, question and answer sessions, webinars, and hands-on demonstration) to present art theories, concepts, and history while adhering to university protocols.
  • Expanded Education Outside of the Classroom by tapping into a comprehensive networking of professionals and artisans in the community.
  • Evaluated Student Responses to Learning Initiatives, Facilitated Group/Individual Critiques, and Remained Current on Advancements in Contemporary Sculpture/Fibers to implement changes and updates to the curriculum/lessons.
  • Maintained Documentation and data collection, including student grades, in print and electronic systems while complying with university protocols, NASAD accreditation data collection, IADS digital comprehension data collection.
  • Answered Student Questions, Provided Student Advisement/Tutoring, promoted student involvement, and served as a reference for hundreds of students by establishing/holding a variety of regular office hours, accepting student appointments, remaining available before/after class, and responding to emails/calls in a timely manner.
  • Assisting with Student Art Shows, installing and curating student showcases
 
Plano ISD (Clark High School): Plano, TX                                               8/2021 – Present
Utica Community Schools (Stevenson High School/Mallow Junior High School): Macomb County, MI X                        9/2010 – 6/2012
VISUAL ARTS TEACHER
Developed and led the delivery of comprehensive inclusive lesson plans and curriculums to provide education on 2D/3D visual arts concepts and techniques to both junior high and high school students, including advanced placement (AP) students.

  • Promoted Collaborative Classroom Environments that engaged students and fostered their creativity while managing a load of 150+ students.
  • Established an After-School Arts Club to inspire a love of the subject.
  • Organized Classroom Logistics to meet the evolving needs of each curriculum and subject. Secured, assembled, and prepared materials within budgets and arranged layouts.    
  • Documented and Maintained Information on student evaluations, grades, and attendance while tracking their progression in the subject areas.
  • Mitigated Risks of Student Accidents/Injuries while leading them to operate a variety of equipment, including a kiln, by setting and communicating studio safety practices and correcting unsafe behavior.
  • Communicated Student Progress to Parents/Guardians through conferences and ongoing communication (calls/emails).
  • Remained Flexible and Available to Work After Hours, Chaperone Events, and Assist in Art Activities, including district-wide art shows, student dances, and field trips.
  • Cultivated Expertise in District/School Protocols, Visual Arts Trends, and Learning Enhancements through professional development courses and department meetings.
 
Dallas Area School Districts (Arlington ISD, Plano ISD, and Rockwall ISD): Dallas, TX                                                                                                                   1/2021 – 6/2021
Houston Area School Districts (Houston ISD, Katy ISD, and Spring Branch ISD): Houston, TX                                                                                                                   11/2012 – 8/2014
SUBSTITUTE TEACHER                              
Taught a variety of subjects (art, film, history, English, and social studies) to students of varying intellectual abilities, cultures, socioeconomic levels, and ages (6th -12th grade) as necessary to fill short and long-term vacancies across multiple districts and schools.

  • Built Collaborative Relationships with Department Chairs, Principals, and Teachers to ensure the continuous delivery of education for the students while adhering to their regular curriculums and lesson plans.
  • Established and Maintained Clean, Safe, and Organized Classrooms while maximizing the use of space/resources and promoting synergy between the students. 
  • Prepared Notes for the Regulator Instructor, including completed activities, milestones, and lesson plans, for seamless transitions following their return.
  • Led Engaging Classroom and Discussion that communicated core concepts while fostering a love of learning and interest in the subjects.
 
Additional Teaching Experience: Sculpture/Fiber/Visual Arts Instructor at Numerous Summer Camps, Festivals (DFW Fiber Fest, Houston Fiber Fest, Kid N’ Ewe, Yellow Rose Fiber Fiesta, Sugar Land, Arts Center, Fort Bend Art Center, Dallas Handweavers and Spinners Guild, HGA’s Convergence,  Medow’s Museum family Day, Houston Contemporary Handweavers Guild, Handweavers Guild of America, Fulshear Arts, Roeper Lower School, and JoAnn’s Arts and Crafts)

MUSEUM/BUSINESS EXPERIENCE
Blaffer Art Museum                                                                                                                                  1/2015 - 4/2017
DOCENT (4/2015 – 4/2017)
Facilitated tours and educational seminars on art exhibits throughout the award-winning contemporary arts museum while inspiring a love and appreciation for various art forms.

  • Remained Current on Both Regular and Touring Exhibits to serve as a knowledgeable museum representative while building professional partnerships.
 
EDUCATION DEPARTMENT INTERN (1/2015 – 4/2015)
Designed lesson plans and art projects that mirrored current exhibits while supplementing the learning and education process for students, patrons, and visitors of varying ages, backgrounds, and artistic abilities.

  • Received a Paid Job Offer to the Role of Docent after serving only four months in the role as a result of diplomatic public speaking skills, an ability to lead others, superior work ethic, and passion for the industry.
 
Kyla’s Lab: Textile Arts and Accessories: Katy, TX     5/2009 – 1/2021
SOLE PROPRIETOR/PRINCIPAL ARTIST
Established, launched, and managed a craft-based organization providing yarn dying services, customized looms, and handwoven home/personal accessories.

  • Expanded the Sales Footprint of the Organization from a startup venture to an established business through numerous initiatives.
 
  • Built Professional Relationships with end users, local yarn shops, and distributors (B2B/B2C) while providing education on product use/operation and showcasing product benefits against competitor offerings.
  • Promoted Products at Vendor/Trade Shows. Sourced/secured booth space, arranged logistics, and created banners that attracted foot traffic.
  • Designed the Company Website (www.kylaslab.com), Logos, Business Cards, and Marketing/Promotional Materials (print/digital) that generated buzz and awareness of the organization.
 
  • Designed, Tested, Manufactured, and Distributed a Myriad of Products (looms, accessories, and yarns) to meet the evolving needs and key buying factors of targeted audiences.
  • Established and Administered Budgets, tracked expenses, capitalized on cost-containment initiatives, and maintained records for tax purposes.
  • Sourced and Secured Quality Resources/Raw Materials (dyes, yarn, fabrics, and loom/wood plastic materials) from third-party vendors and suppliers.
  • Oversaw End-to-End Manufacturing Processes with national mills and craftspeople to ensure product quality and adherence to scopes/contractual specifications.
 
JUROR/ REVIEWER
4TH IADS SHOWCASE 2023
Clark High School Student Showcase 2022
Clark High School Student Showcase 2021
HGA Scholarship Reviewer 2020

COLLECTIONS                      
LESTER MARKS 2017
MERIDITH CAWLEY 2015-23
WILLAM CRAWFORD 2009-23
ARTFUL HOME INTERIORS 2022/23
JONATHON ATWOOD 2009-24
                                              
ARTIST TALKS                            
BLAFFER 2017
HGA SPINNING AND WEAVING WEEK 2020
MEDOWS MUSEUM 2024

EDUCATION
MASTER OF FINE ARTS (MFA): SCULPTURE CONCENTRATION
University of Houston: Houston, TX
 
BACHELOR OF FINE ARTS (BFA): Fiber Arts & Painting Concentration
Wayne State University: Detroit, MI – Graduated Cum Laude
 
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE (B.S.): ART EDUCATION, Minor: European History
Wayne State University: Detroit, MI – Graduated Cum Laude
 
AWARDS/GRANTS FELLOWSHIPS
First Prize, Assistance League of Houston Celebrates Texas Art (2018), Williams Tower Gallery, Art Graduate Endowment Fellowship, University of Houston (2017, 2106), Graduate Tuition Fellowship, University of Houston (2017, 2016, 2015, 2014), Holt-Wich Scholarship (2014, 2015),
 
Volunteer Experience (Past/Present): Presenter, Digital Convergence 2020 HGA, Model, Oliver Herring, Diverse Works, Board Member, Contemporary Handweavers of Houston, Fiber Arts Demo, The Art Institute of Houston, Weaving with the Fulshear Art Program, Sew Sundays Instructor, Turmbullplex, Felting Demo, Art Expo At Anchor Bay High School, and Summer Art Camp Teacher’s Aide, Paint Creek Center for Creative Arts
 
Professional Affiliations: TAEA, Dallas Handweavers, Handweavers Guild of America, and Fiber Arts Network