From deconstruction to reconstruction: How Sherri Denault found the balance she was searching for in her work with Form to Freedom.
Having just completed her MFA and with a background in teaching at university level, Sherri Denault was already immersed in the world of art. She’d been working with fibre in her own unique way - pulling apart threads, deconstructing materials like gossamer paper, cheesecloth, and burlap. But something was missing.
“I was searching for structure. I wanted to balance the chaos I loved with a sense of control,” Sherri shared.
That’s when she discovered Harriet Goodall’s course Form to Freedom.
A shift in direction
Drawn to Harriet’s striking use of natural materials and the professionalism of the course presentation, Sherri enrolled in Form to Freedom with the hope of learning foundational weaving techniques. What she found was so much more.
“Sometimes you're not sure what you're getting when you sign up for a course, but this one was well worth the investment. What I received will influence years of creating. The course gave me the tools to build that structure I was craving.”
The course helped Sherri gain the confidence to fuse her deconstructive fibre practice with structured, open-air weaving – bringing balance and harmony into her pieces in ways she hadn’t imagined.
A practice elevated
From the very beginning, Sherri embraced the techniques taught in the course. Looping, in particular, became a creative anchor.
“Looping was challenging but compelling. I loved how it gave me the space to express my voice while working within a defined structure.”
The Asian fish trap style also stood out. Sherri experimented with how these techniques could be applied in new, inventive ways, often combining them with hand-stitched and painted cheesecloth, encaustic elements, and objects found in nature.
One standout piece – a large looped piece created for her MFA exhibition – is both fragile and bold. A true representation of what happens when structure meets freedom.
An unexpected ripple effect
The results spoke for themselves. Sherri sold nearly every piece from her weaving series, with work exhibited in Michigan and Chicago.
She’s now teaching workshops, including a college-level course at Northwestern University in Michigan, guiding students through their own “fiddly parts” as Harriet calls them, with newfound confidence.
“The course didn’t just improve my practice – it opened doors. I’m helping others now, just like Harriet helped me.”
Why she recommends Form to Freedom
Sherri is quick to recommend Harriet’s course to anyone curious about weaving or looking to expand their fibre practice.
“You’re not left guessing. Harriet’s demonstrations are clear and professional, and having lifetime access means you can go back anytime.”
“Harriet is an artistic genius when it comes to weaving. You’ll fall in love with the process.”
Inspired by Sherri’s story?
Whether you’re new to art or looking for deeper meaning in your work, Harriet Goodall’s signature course From to Freedom is a deep dive into working with plants, fibres, dyeing and basketry techniques to create unique sculptural objects.
