John Hess

John Hess' introduction to textiles began at the Schaeffer School of Design in San Francisco, where the

emphasis on color formulated his approach to weaving. His interest in shapes and patterns developed as

he traveled to view the prehistoric Mayan and Toltec ruins in Mexico. The Japanese design concept of

Notan has inspired John with his work. To John, weaving as an art is a slow, meditative process, with the

preliminary discipline of counting threads, measuring, and setting up a grid that eventually leads him to

improvise freely and opens the way to creative freedom.  

John teaches in colleges and universities in Utah, and instructs workshops in his downtown studio. He has

had numerous private and public art commissions in Utah, including the College of Eastern Utah, the Rose

Wagner Performing Arts Center, and the Salt Lake City International Airport.