Professional focus
Pettersen is working on the development of woven fabrics in which various materials, construction and expression are adapted to function and context. Digital drawing tool is used as a basis for further experiments in the material. His methods include both the manual equipment and more advanced digital tools and industrial looms. Jon Pettersen has been creating woven textiles for interior and for garments. Commission works and reconstruction of old textiles has given new experience and knowledge useful for contemporary developments. During resent years his own collection of finished products like shawls, scarves and throws has been growing and gets increasing attention.
Artistic Development
Based on the expertise and contacts Pettersen works on a project supported by KHIB: “Throw. Textile objects in motion.” It aims to develop artistic expression related to functional textile units. This is part of a larger project “Future Textiles” in which he and colleagues Hilde Hauan Johnsen and Ingrid Aarset are working with artistic developments ending with two exhibitions at Sogn & Fjordane Art Museum and The Art Museum of Northern Norway during 2012.
Teaching
As associate professor at Bergen Academy of Art and Design Pettersen is offering his lectures and tutoring in the subject of digital weaving.
Computer controlled looms with jacquard allows for the design of free patterns and structures of the woven surface. To take advantage of the technology require basic and specialized introduction to construction / tissue. The Art Department offers training in the use of both manual and digitally controlled tools. The program includes construction theory with simple and complex structures and combinations. Principles of color mixing give additional and useful tools in building up a motif in a woven surface.
Interdisciplinary cooperation
Through many years Department of Design, in collaboration with Jon Pettersen has developed a study program where textiles are examined in the meeting with other materials. Both the functional aspect and the expressive potential have been in focus and represent an open approach between the departments of art and design.
Network
From his employments at several Norwegian textile companies Pettersen has a large industrial network. From the teaching and collaborations with other institutions he knows many professionals in the field. Former students from many years back add to the list of people who know him.
One special international program called European Textile Trainee ETT has been important to develop the contact between schools and industry in Europe. Pettersen takes part in the introduction courses in Tilburg, Netherlands every year.
Prices
Professor Jon Pettersen received the “Award for Exellent Design 2007″ by the Norwegian Design Council in cooperation with furniture designers Norway Says. The price he received for furniture fabric with a three-dimensional shell structure, “Scalo”.
Publications
“Bird. Study and analysis of a jacquard woven fabric by William Morris from 1878.” KHiB 2000
Reviews
“En tekstildesigner trer frem”. Kunsthåndverk” No 2-3 2011.