Vicki Essig’s silk weavings are characterized by a quiet, methodical approach that reflects both her observational practices and her intimate engagement with nature. Based in Penland, North Carolina, Essig’s creative practice involves a collection of natural materials, such as mulberry branches, dried pods, and flower petals, which she integrates into her weavings. In a distinctive seasonal endeavor, Essig raises silkworms, nurturing them through their life cycle to produce silk fibers. This process is not only a demonstration of her craftsmanship but also an exploration of the lifecycle of the material itself. Through the constant shepherding of the worms, Essig transforms the raw material into intricate, tactile surfaces that evoke the quietude of her surroundings.