Weaver's Knot

Situated on the Delaware River Waterfront, this artwork recalls the histories of the textile industry and cargo shipping that dominated the region for hundreds of years. The art- work’s title, Weaver’s Knot: Sheet Bend is comprised of two names traditionally used to describe the same knot. The “Weaver’s knot” name derives from its historic use in textile mills. The “sheet bend” or “sheet knot” was used on sailing vessels for bending ropes to sails.
The project takes the knot form by way of steel spheres suspended from tall poles suggestive of the “cargo masts” that once operated on the boats and wharves at the River Trail site.
The work draws a connection between the industrial past and technological present of Philadelphia. Stainless steel, polished to a mirrored finish forms the spheres that comprise the knot. The material reflects the surrounding landscape as well as the viewer’s own image; visitors will see themselves reflected within dozens of spheres.
While the project nods to history, the two knotted cords serve as a reminder of the fabric of individuals that are woven together to make up Philadelphia. Each culture and each history is held together, person to person, one knot at a time