Statement -
I am fascinated with the idea that my ancestors are;
"Within me, surrounding me and taking part in all I do".
My textile practise aims to explore this curious relationship I share with my ancestors. I have little knowledge of my true historic past, only assumptions
and myths of my own making. I constantly return to visualise recurrent themes of bonding, devotion and reconnection, in the hope I can find out who I am,
and why stitch is so important to me.
The archive comprises of photographs documenting all my activity and devotional objects made out of bread and ephemeral materials, garments and stitched
effigies.
I intuitively craft `devotional objects` Drawing and incorporating imagery and the few handed down memories I possess.
Bread Effigies are expressions that make comment upon the parity of bread and stitch as women's work. A daily ritual of making, I know my ancestors would
have partaken. By stitching bread effigies I aim to subvert a chore into a devotional offering.
Each stitch is a metaphor for the bonding process ephemeral materials are intuitively crafted so nothing is wasted. Creating a visual space where my ancestors
can live again.
`Ancestor skins` are current expressions that bring together the varied visual documentation collected over the last few years. I utilise historical imagery,
personal reflection and myths of my female ancestors creating intuitively crafted, tangible fabric surfaces imbued with layered personification.
As a mother I make many skins, skins to wash and skins to wear, stitched skins, ancestor skins. Skins become garments that protect the new generation
and eventually shroud. Each stitch repeats the bonding process, seams are lineage's, pieced together so nothing is wasted.
Through making stitched surfaces I affirm a continuity for future generations and add an esoteric mystery to a world that has paved over some of its ancient
magic. I hope an audience will view the archive with curiosity recognising the need to revisit the past and make connection for themselves.
CV
contact - Alison
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