Q&A with Jordan Bashore, featured artist

If you’ve stopped by the bakery cafe in the last few weeks, you’ve probably noticed the collection of artwork by Jordan Bashore being featured on our walls. We’re bringing you behind the scenes of Jordan’s unique artwork with an interview all about her process and inspirations and the intersection of her art, faith, and life. 

Jordan Bashore is a fiber artist and art educator living and working in the Harrisburg, Pennsylvania area. She earned her M.A. in Art Education from Boston University. Her work has been exhibited at the Susquehanna Art Museum and the Art Association of Harrisburg and is held in private collections. Jordan has presented her A/R/Tography research at the 2024 National Art Education Association (NAEA) Conference in Minneapolis, MN, as well as at the 2020 NAEA Conference and the 2019 Pennsylvania Art Education Association Conference.

Can you tell us about the works on display and why you selected them? 

The works on display are part of my most recent weaving series. As a new mother, I have begun exploring the intersection of artmaking, motherhood, and spirituality. I find myself asking: Where do the acts of creating, tending to a child, and connecting with God meet? These pieces reflect my ongoing search for that intersection. They are rooted in lived experience and serve as both documentation and meditation on this transformative season of life.

Can you share about your medium of choice and what pulls you toward it?

I work primarily as a textile artist. In addition to my weavings, I create kimonos using tulle, silk, and natural elements such as acorns. The sheerness and delicacy of these materials allow me to explore themes of spirituality, inviting viewers to reflect on both fragility and beauty in creation. I am especially drawn to the visual parallel between the Tau cross and the kimono form. For me, this connection symbolizes Christ’s sacrifice while emphasizing the physicality of the garment — a tangible reminder of the nearness and presence of Jesus. Textiles, in their softness and intimacy, carry both symbolic and embodied meaning in my work.

What inspires you as an artist? 

Over the years, many experiences have shaped my work. My time studying in Italy and my faith have been especially formative. Immersion in art, architecture, and sacred spaces deeply influenced the way I think about beauty and intention.

Most recently, early motherhood has become a profound source of inspiration. The quiet, difficult, and deeply beautiful moments of this season have begun to surface in my work. I am continually struck by how even the most ordinary or challenging days can carry a sacred weight.

Do you have artistic influences you look up to or that have helped guide you on your artistic journey? 

Yes, absolutely. My time at Messiah University and studying in Italy significantly shaped my artistic development. I am especially grateful for professors like Christine Forsythe, who introduced me to many of the processes and conceptual approaches I continue to use today. I am also inspired by artists and designers such as Anni Albers, Carlo Scarpa, Elon Noble, and Sully Sherrod. Their thoughtful use of material, form, and space continues to challenge and encourage my own practice.

Can you share about your process?

My process is deeply reflective of the season I am in. For years, I have balanced artmaking with teaching visual art, and now I have added motherhood to that rhythm. Currently, my studio and teaching space share the same room in my home.

This proximity allows me to move fluidly between roles — stepping away from teaching to spend time weaving, or working during quiet nap times. Sometimes my son joins me, sitting in my lap and helping guide the threads. Although this often slows the work, these shared moments have become some of my most meaningful. My process is no longer separate from my life; it is woven directly into it.

Where can we learn more about buying your pieces or commissioning work?

You can view available work and learn more at jordanbashore.com, or reach out directly via email or Instagram for commissions and inquiries.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

Over the past few years, I have had the opportunity to teach high school art, teach in museum settings, participate in numerous exhibitions, conduct and present action research at both National and State conventions, and maintain a studio space at the Millworks. It has been a gift to pursue both my teaching career and my studio practice simultaneously. I am deeply grateful for the constant encouragement of my husband, Aaron, who supports my work and continually challenges me to grow as both an artist and educator.

We are so grateful to Jordan for collaborating with us to display her works in the cafe bakery. Next time you come in, we invite you to take a deeper look at her art, understanding its story and hers.