Artist Statement
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| Artist Statement |
Historically, textiles have always been deeply rooted in our global culture.- both for function and ornamentation. In our modern day society, there is a stark contrast between the hand crafted item and mass manufactured disposable goods. Hand crafted items are precious; they possess a different energy: one that is alive, and connected to the artist. The faster the spread of globalization, the greater the nostalgia for what it replaces – connection to our hands, the earth, and each other. Color, texture, pattern and form are constant sources of inspiration to me. The natural world, urban decay, world travel, ethnic and historical textiles, body adornment, poetry, handwriting, music and movement may all offer me creative seeds of potential. I am inspired by the tactile process behind creation, and the metamorphosis of ordinary materials into something extraordinary. For the past six years my work has been focused on creating hand made fabrics, which I then sculpt into wearable art pieces. Feltmaking transforms wool fibres into beautiful cloth without any expensive materials or cumbersome equipment – it simply requires a knowledge of the ancient technique, physical labor and patience. I usually begin by hand dyeing wool, which I then felt, often onto silk. A variety of surface design techniques may be used to create a pattern on the felt, such as fabric inlay, appliqué, free motion embroidery, hand stitching and beading. The fabric thus produced has a unique surface of richly layered colours, texture and pattern, which is a direct result of the magical alchemy of the materials and the moment. My work blurs the line between art, craft and fashion. It challenges the notion of what is precious and valued in our society. I strive to honor ancient practices and a primitive artform, while creating pieces that are beautiful and timeless. |