Mapping it out - initial thoughts

I find the process that resolves itself as a textile work challenging. In the beginning I am clueless. This is as much a strength as a source of mild anxiety. I have learnt persistence and turning up are as important as creative thinking. I'm mindful my first response is not going to be the best so I'm starting with a mind-dump. My focus is the Neville Bonner Pedestrian bridge connecting Queens Wharf to South Bank. Thoughts are scratched deep into journal pages. I'll find more connections over coming months.

Right now I'm challenged and torn. What started as perfunctory research about Meanjin's (Brisbane's) newest bridge has developed into a sense of disappointment and WTFWTWPT (WTF-were-the-white-people-thinking)? I'm unpacking those thoughts in my journal - the architects and their inspiration, the consortium, what the bridge connects, where it leads, Yuggera and Turrbul people's connections to this part of the river, Mr Neville Bonner's own connection to this space and place. There is much to contemplate and resolve in my own mind before translating onto to cloth.

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Making progress Trees #2

Repurposing quilts

I made a king sized quilt many decades ago for a friend and after many winters she returned it because of wear and tear. Instead of faithful service, stories and history, she saw something that no longer held value. There were tears and wear points, and the only other option if I couldn't repair it, was to throw it away. I suggested she give it back and I'd turn it into bags. Fifteen so far, and that used one of the side panels. Two side panels and the top of the quilt to go. I'll try to find some other ways of giving the quilt a second or third life, ever so glad it stayed out of landfill.

Planning an artist's life - exhibition time!

Another catchup with Rebecca and some serious planning for our end of 2024 exhibition. apart from creating gallery worthy pieces, we need to consider the exhibition space, and how we can use it to its best advantage. We have been considering our general theme, the things that unite us in style, size, colour, scale and shape, and what will bring the exhibition gravitas, what will our "wow factor" be? We're also considering related activities, workshops, artist talks, the "shop", how we best involve visitors and give them the best experience we can. Hard work, that we both enjoy in the planning stage, as much as the independent making phase. I can't wait to move into the new house and get the indoor studio established - then the work and magic will really begin.

Ali George Artist

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