Considering the theme ‘Uncharted’, the phrase ‘uncharted territory’ kept returning to me. When the Coronavirus pandemic started, we were certainly entering uncharted territory. Uncharted: Unravelling is a reflection of the effects of lockdown, the handling of the pandemic and its effect on mental wellbeing. I have used processes that focus on breakdown, of either colour or materials, to evoke this sentiment. The loose ends, frayed edges, pin holes and visible seams show that, while we hold ourselves together, we are also fragile. The organza panels and use of only two layers are to add transparency and convey a feeling of fragility.
The piece is made using cotton and cotton muslin which is monoprinted or painted with acrylics; rust dyed; Thermofax or breakdown printed with thickened dye paint. I have also used paper lamination on polyester organza, using Thermofax screens to adhere the design to the organza. The photos are digitally manipulated and transferred to cotton with gel medium. The images of grasses are inspired by my lockdown walks, which offered welcome respite, and the photos were taken by me on walks in my local area.
