Beginning in the 1960s, Magdalena Abakanowicz challenged the
domination of two-dimensional, pictorial tapestry traditions by embracing a
sculptural aesthetic in fiber art. At the time, the conception and making of
tapestries was largely divided, with artists designing and craftspeople
weaving. Abakanowicz broke with this tradition and designed and wove her own
works, opting for a more intuitive approach of working on the loom. She used
untraditional materials, such as sisal, that had a textured appearance. Her
series of Abakans became some of her most well-known works. When hanging in
space, they evoke ceremonial robes, hollowed out trees, or references to the
body.