On Wednesday, Brunel Broderers’ new exhibition started at the lovely National House called ‘Newark Park’ in Ozleworth, Gloucestershire. This is my first exhibition with this well established group.
I chose to make work that reflects on the occupation of young people’s hands. My artist statement explains the concept behind this project…
The faded beauty of the Stuart Casket instantly made me want to draw it: whilst very enjoyable, it was a slow process and after 315 hours of free machine embroidery, only the front was complete. How skilled the young female embroider had been: the excitement of buying the kit sold by a travelling pedlar, followed by many hours of stitching with bone needles and candle light.
I also loved to work from kits as a child – I learnt many skills and filled many a creative hour.
Today, hands continue to be occupied, but what will this generation have to hold in reverence of their childhood?
