‘Gear’ by Bettina Matzkuhn Takes up Camp at the Mississippi Valley Textile Museum

Press Release – Mississippi Valley Textile Museum

We live in a region with beautiful outdoor trails, parks, and campgrounds- but how do we reconcile the often-synthetic gear we use to enjoy these spaces, with our responsibility to preserve and protect the environment? 

Exploring this question, “Gear” by Bettina Matzkuhn will be on exhibition at the Mississippi Valley Textile Museum (MVTM) from May 3 to July 19, 2025. The vernissage will take place from 2 to 4 pm on Saturday, May 3, 2025. 

In "Gear," Matzkuhn examines human presence in the backcountry by deconstructing old backpacks and using recycled outdoor fabrics like ripstop nylon, webbing, and closures, mimicking tents and backpacks. Visitors are encouraged to interact with some pieces, to unzip and reveal hidden embroidered landscapes that suggest effects of climate change. The exhibit questions the role of outdoor gear in the consumption, promotion, and diminishment of natural spaces. As the consequences of human activity are more visible than ever, the Museum is looking forward to sharing this topical exhibit with the community.  

“With ‘Gear,’ Matzkuhn has created thoughtful and critical art that is increasingly important for us to see and reflect upon,” said Michael Rikley-Lancaster, Executive Director/Curator, Mississippi Valley Textile Museum. “Living in such a wonderfully lush and green valley, so close to cottage country, and removed from the more extreme effects of climate change, we can often take our environment for granted. This exhibit encourages us to examine how we interact with and explore our natural spaces.” 

About Mississippi Valley Textile Museum

The Mississippi Valley Textile Museum is committed to collecting, preserving, and telling the stories of the local mill workers and labour history, while offering an open, inclusive space for the local community and visitors from across the globe.

If you wish to enquire about museum and its operations, please visit: https://mvtm.ca/whats-on/