wearables/ textile art/ garments
burned dress
156cm (h) x 73cm (w) x 25cm (d) materials: black calico, net, organza, lace, sewing thread, embroidery floss techniques: discharge printing, hand and machine stitch artist statement The blackened scorched earth from bushfires is unforgettable. The smell of smoke lingers in the air. Loss of habitat and native species, the threat to homes and lives, are all regular features of summer. Colourfully stitched Australian bush imagery is a metaphor for renewal, regrowth and healing that takes place in nature after the devastation of bush fires. And just like nature, we too can get 'burned'. In this work, internal narratives based on the words and actions of others, and how language, relationships and communication impact our perception of self are revisited. Resilience, vulnerability, growth and developing a strong sense of self are experienced. Inspired by Victorian era fashion, both the idyllic romanticism and harsh reality of our relationships are portrayed. Trust your judgement. Take a risk. Step out of your pain. Begin again. You are stronger than before: vulnerable, but open to the possibilities that lie ahead. 2023 tamworth regional gallery, tamworth NSW |