While fiber art includes anything that has a thread-like structure, including stitching, fabric, dyeing, weaving and basket- and paper-making, the work of these three women deals specifically with cloth, though in a variety of ways.

     "Everyone's approach is different," said Wolf.  "We're inspired by different traditions."

     Wolf categorizes her own work as more general, reflecting on the use of cloth, while the work of Joslyn is inspired by Peruvian and Andean fibers and Kotani's is more abstract and reflects African traditions.

     Joslyn and Kotani, who conceived the show, wanted to feature the work of fiber artists within the state school system.  Wolf, who taught fiber arts at IUP for two years, was invited to join, while Joslyn and Kotani represent Clarion university and Slippery Rock University, respectively.  

     After its opening at the University Museum, the exhibit will travel to Slippery Rock and Clarion.  Atavistic Threads, which has been organized by the University Museum, has received financial support from Clarion and SRU.