Bonnie (Bebe) Kuhr
Bonnie (Bebe) Kuhr’s journey into art began with a deep connection to nature, a bond that was formed in her early childhood. "With two siblings, we would explore what surrounded us by going on nature hikes," she recalls. These early adventures sparked a lifelong fascination with the natural world, a theme that would come to define her artistic work. "Even to this day, I find joy in spotting new plants, flowers, and creatures," she adds, reflecting on the enduring influence of those formative experiences.
Early Years
Bebe’s early years were marked by the freedom to explore her interests, thanks to supportive parents who never hesitated to let her choose her own direction in life. In school, she dabbled in multiple art classes and even entered her work into the local county fair. However, it wasn’t until she attended an annual fundraiser at the local Museum of Contemporary Art that she became truly captivated by the world of art. "They allowed anyone, with or without an art background, to create a piece of art to be donated and auctioned off. Needless to say, I was hooked right then and there on creating art," she shares.
This experience set her on a path of full-time commitment to art, where she explored various techniques, mediums, and types of art. Over time, Bebe found herself gravitating towards using natural fibers and found objects, a reflection of her deep connection to nature. Recognizing the need for formal education to further develop her skills, she enrolled in a four-course credit series called "Fiber Sculpture" at the College of Marin. "It was a grueling commitment that required hours of work and research, but it turned out to be the best art career choice I made," she reflects.
Experimentation and Innovation
Today, Bebe considers herself an experimental 3D fiber artist. Her work is characterized by a constant expansion of boundaries, as she experiments with unconventional materials and methods. "I challenge myself in mixing both natural fibers and synthetic fibers," she explains. This spirit of experimentation drives her to create new techniques and explore different ways to accomplish her artistic vision. Each of her projects begins with a concept, often inspired by a subject matter that interests her or materials she has on hand in her studio. Research plays a crucial role in her creative process, guiding her decisions on materials and techniques. "Once a concept has been selected and the initial research completed, my plan begins," she says. Whether sketching or making a maquette, Bebe approaches her work with a balance of careful planning and openness to change. "Even with the best plans, there may be a need for adjustments in the making," she notes, illustrating her flexible approach to art.
The Story Behind "Regeneration"
One of Bebe’s notable pieces, "Regeneration," exemplifies her creative process and the challenges she embraces along the way. The work began with materials she already had in her studio—colored repurposed wire and a moose antler. Initially used to showcase handmade fiber jewelry, the antler took on a new life in Bebe’s hands. "I wove colored repurposed wire to simulate the tines of an antler, but after attaching the branches to the main antler, it just didn’t work for me," she recalls.
Rather than abandoning the project, Bebe set it aside for a couple of months, allowing the idea to evolve. Eventually, she decided to weave steel wire freeform between the tines, transforming the piece into a completed vessel. "This worked, and the vessel was completed," she says. The concept behind "Regeneration" was inspired by research into the rapid growth of antlers, which led to several medical breakthroughs—a discovery that resonated with Bebe on a personal level. "I have dedicated this piece to my brother, who has his doctorate in biochemistry and works in the lab researching," she shares.
A Commitment to Beauty and Message
Bebe’s art often tackles serious themes, such as the effects of climate change or global warming. Yet, her intent is to draw viewers in with the beauty of her work, allowing them to engage with the deeper message embedded within. "With such beauty, there can also be a serious message," she explains. Engaging with the public through exhibitions and shows, Bebe finds affirmation in the reactions of viewers, whether they grasp her intended concept or interpret the work in their own way. "I enjoy hearing and seeing the reactions, regardless of whether they understand the concept or have their own," she says. Her accomplishments as an artist are numerous, including an international award for 3D art from Fiber Art Now, a commissioned piece for the National Eagle Museum, and various invitational shows and first-place awards. "I feel that I’m on the correct path with these accomplishments, but in the end, I make the art for myself and no one else," she reflects.
Looking Ahead
Currently, Bebe is working on a large installation piece that uses repurposed telephone wire and vinyl records. The subject matter is flowers, a symbol of nature’s role in attracting pollinators and spreading pollen. "Flowers also make me happy," she adds, underscoring the joy she finds in her work.
Bebe Kuhr’s artistic journey is one of continual exploration and innovation. Through her experimental approach to 3D fiber art, she transforms natural and synthetic materials into works that are both visually stunning and thought-provoking. As she continues to push the boundaries of her craft, her art remains a testament to the beauty and complexity of the natural world, offering viewers a chance to engage with the serious issues of our time through the lens of beauty.
