This patchwork textile explores the rhythm of life and death cycles found in nature. Decay and decomposers such as fungi play an important role in the environment. Rot and decay brings rejuvenation and nourishment to the soil and earth. This cycle is both a beginning and an end as without death there would be no opportunity for new growth: This is one of nature’s stories.
In producing this textile I searched for earth connections and ways we can relate to the stories and rhythms of nature as human beings. I looked to gumtree trunks and local fungi to derive my colour palette, these subtle colours of purples, greys, creams and rust are a source of comfort and peace. Each piece of the patchwork is dyed with fallen eucalyptus leaves or bark. The variety of colour comes from using a range of eucalypt species and colour-shifting with iron. Carefully cut and arranged to give a sense of rhythm.
Delicate free-motion machine embroidery echoes decomposition found in the environment, these include motifs of fungi, wilting flowers and cicada shells.
Conscious of the end life of my textiles, only natural fibres such as linens and cottons were used to be kinder to the earth and to decompose quickly when the time comes.
This patchwork ended up as a wall hanging, resting on a fallen eucalyptus branch. It was exhibited in Soft Artefacts, a group show of textiles in 2021 at Goodspace Gallery.
