My first day in Amsterdam I went on a pilgrimage to the Centrale Bibliotheek, the largest library in Europe, to see Claudy Jongstra's felt wall covering. Inside the building's main entrance one wall is covered entirely by gold-ochre colored wool with alarmingly long, loose tufts that protrude into space. The unique texture induces mythic awe--as if you've entered an unusual world where the walls grow hair. The installation made from Drenthe Heath sheep's wool, Wensleydale wool, raw silk, wool merino, and chiffon felt begs to be touched. In interviews I've read, Ms. Jonstra encourages touching her work, which is an invitation not regularly extended to public art works--particularly involving textiles. Because wool is such a notably durable fabric resilient to soiling, the only evidence that the wall covering has been handled at all are a few braided pieces.

Up a short flight of steps, a more expansive wall covering incorporates mostly a lustrous white wool with stripes of more gold-ochre wool, which has been twisted and loosely woven and gives the impression that the ochre wool at the entrance has been tamed into this larger piece. The size of this installation is impressive as it covers two stories behind the information desk. The felted walls evoke warmth and texture that both soften and energize architect Jo Coenen's efficient lines in the new modern library...I'll be going back before leaving Amsterdam for sure...