An Evening with Wild Fibers

Imagine if James Herriot and Margaret Mead liked to knit?

Twenty years ago, Linda Cortright, editor of Wild Fibers, began traveling the world to better understand all the ways natural fibers have evolved not just over the centuries, but over the millennia. With one eye focused on her deep love of animals and the other towards the changes in culture and traditions, Wild Fibers has often been called, “The National Geographic of the fiber industry.”

“Conversations with Wild Fibers” is a series that spans the globe, featuring not only some of the stunning places Cortright has traveled, but at times, the shocking realization at the vital role fibers can have in a community. Imagine something as small and simple as a silkworm being used to help fight the opium industry.

Cortright’s lectures always include stunning photos, unusual insights, and a slightly cheeky wit. She will not be knitting … but would be delighted if you cared to do so.

*Linda Cortright Biography*

As editor and publisher of Wild Fibers Magazine, Linda Cortright has traveled to all seven continents, pursuing the role of natural fibers in remote and indigenous communities. Cortright’s experience led her to serve on the Steering Committee of the International Year of Natural Fibres, a global initiative sponsored by the United Nations in Rome, and ongoing work with the IWTO (International Wool and Textile Association).

In 2015, Cortright opened the Pangong Craft Center, the first (and only) cashmere spinning and weaving center in India’s High Himalayas, providing employment to more than 130 semi-nomadic women.

In November 2020, Cortright published her first book, The Eye of Fiber: an uncommon story from around the world, focusing on the impact of culture, climate, and politics within the fiber industry.

And in 2021, her second book, Twisted Tales: a memoir of earthquakes, opium, orphans, and other wild yarns from around the world. Cortright also conducts tours to some of her favorite destinations, including Antarctica where she recently spent two months onboard an expedition ship as a guest lecturer, highlighting the importance of natural fibers within our fragile ecosystem.