This project is dedicated to my grandmother, Valentina Khotsialova. Three memories of her have stayed with me over the years: the boundless, unconditional love she gave me; the quiet unhappiness that seemed to accompany her; and her extraordinary collection of fabrics.

As a child, I could lose myself for hours in that treasure trove — bright colors, rich textures, intricate ornaments. Running my hands through endless meters of fabric was one of my favorite games, a kind of private, tactile wonderland.

Early work