An exhibition by critically acclaimed fiber artist Cat Chow opens with a reception from 5 to 7 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 5, at The Bascom in Highlands.

Chow, who has been hailed by The New Yorker magazine, will give an artist’s talk during the reception.

“Chow draws on her training in fashion design when making her mixed media pieces; her work incorporates zippers, measuring tapes, fish line, keys, wire and other unusual materials,” said Kaye Gorecki, Bascom artistic director. “It’s a definite don’t-miss.”

The exhibit will run through Oct. 10.

Chow’s art/design work has most often been involved with creation of apparel from non-traditional materials; however, she has expanded her work into other forms of fiber art. She is best known for her garments made from zippers; however, other works such as her Power-Ranger Kimono, made from Power Ranger collector playing cards aim to subvert stereotypical representations of Asian women. The piece Measure for Measure, addresses socio-political issues in the form of a 1950s house dress woven out of measuring tapes.

Her work has been shown across media venues including the Met’s Costume Institute and the Museum at FIT and the Museum of Contemporary Art in Chicago and the Contemporary Arts Museum in Houston.

Chow will be teaching three classes at The Bascom during the month of September.

“The Repeated Object” (Sept. 8-9, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.) is a two-day workshop in which students will have the opportunity to create a sculpture that is inspired by the idea of repeated objects. The workshop will include a slide lecture of artists’ work, a demonstration of connecting techniques, sketching and the actual making of a finished piece. Cost is $300 for the general public and $275 for Bascom members.

“The Artist as Collector” (Sept. 10-11, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.) gives students the opportunity to create a work inspired by collecting objects or images. Enjoy a slide lecture, class discussion, show-and-tell and the creation of a finished work. Cost is $300 for the general public and $275 for Bascom members.

“Unconventional Adornment” (Sept. 12, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.) is designed to guide students to use unconventional materials to make a small wearable object. A slide lecture of artists’ work that incorporates unconventional objects, a demonstration of connecting techniques and the creation of a piece that adorns the body such as a piece of jewelry or an accessory will be the focus of this day. Cost is $175 for the general public and $150 for Bascom members.

All three Chow workshops are offered at $625 for the general public, $600 for Bascom members (includes some materials).

The Bascom’s is located at 323 Franklin Road in Highlands. For more information about classes and events or to sign up for a Cat Chow class, visit www.thebascom.org or call 828.526.4949.