ARTIST'S STATEMENT
The inspiration for my work comes from the natural environment. These are not typical landscapes, however. My interest lies in the minute details found in nature that largely go unnoticed. The big picture is not found in my work, but rather the components, tiny and fascinating, that make up the whole. In particular, I am fascinated by the fundamental geometry that pervades our natural world and the fact that these shapes are represented universally and cross culturally in the decorative arts. From stylised plant and animal forms to seemingly abstract geometric patterns found in traditional textiles, all have their basis in patterns found in nature, whether consciously known by the artist/craftsman or not.
To create my images I use fabric and thread much as a painter uses canvas and paint. Fine threads allow for the execution of intricate detail. My threads and fabrics (mostly silk) are sourced from all over the world. I then dye them, by hand, to an individual palette for each artwork. Using these beautiful and unusual custom dyed materials broadens the possibilities of what I can create, compared to the limits imposed by using commercially available fabric and thread. This gives my work a uniqueness that would otherwise be difficult to achieve. A range of stitch types are intricately juxtaposed to create texture and directionality in the work. The highly reflective nature of silk allows for manipulation of light which adds a further dimension to the images. It is these material and technical qualities that allow me to create a sense of movement and spontaneity in my work despite the “slowness” of the medium.
To create my images I use fabric and thread much as a painter uses canvas and paint. Fine threads allow for the execution of intricate detail. My threads and fabrics (mostly silk) are sourced from all over the world. I then dye them, by hand, to an individual palette for each artwork. Using these beautiful and unusual custom dyed materials broadens the possibilities of what I can create, compared to the limits imposed by using commercially available fabric and thread. This gives my work a uniqueness that would otherwise be difficult to achieve. A range of stitch types are intricately juxtaposed to create texture and directionality in the work. The highly reflective nature of silk allows for manipulation of light which adds a further dimension to the images. It is these material and technical qualities that allow me to create a sense of movement and spontaneity in my work despite the “slowness” of the medium.