1 - Prologue

2008-01-01T08:34:00.000+09:00

December 1, 2004

My work has always been a means to explore the world and record my response to it, focusing on subjects about which I’m passionate- the art of making do, other cultures and their textile traditions, and the natural landscape. I’ve documented my response variously through photographs, printed and stitched textiles, and by writing articles and catalogue essays.

In 1994 my focus broadened from the landscape, and the history evident in the marks it bears, to the similar history which can be found in old cloth. Every stain, hole and mend tells a story. I began using remnants from my growing collection of old Japanese domestic fabrics to make new works honouring the universal tradition of innovation born of necessity.

I have since developed a large body of work and several inter-cultural exhibitions exploring this theme. My focus throughout 2003 and 2004 was preparing one of these exhibitions, Pojagi and Beyond, for a national tour. With insufficient time or energy to develop my own work, I paused to observe and reflect on the state of the world.

Looking through my collection of old cloth, I pondered how the act of mending fabric, restoring and extending its life through the allocation of time and care, can be a strong metaphor for healing, both physical and spiritual. In current uncertain and difficult times, there is much in need of mending. Years of focus on economic gain have caused destruction of so many of the earth’s natural resources, and massive breakdown of inter-cultural communication and understanding.

I have a farming friend who is absolutely committed to restoring land which has been abused for generations. His mother has over many years applied that same commitment to mending his incredibly patched work clothes. Their practical demonstration of care is both inspirational and grounding, challenging me to express my own concern for what I see happening around me. I’m not sure I can find a worthy response, but I feel I must try.

As 2004 draws to a close, and Pojagi and Beyond is being carefully packed into the crates in readiness for its Australian tour, I am about to start a new journey of my own. An Australia Council grant has given me the gift of time to explore ideas evolving from my current concerns, bringing together all my favourite means of expression; stitching, printing, photography, and writing. I have a wonderful learning experience ahead of me.

Wendy Lugg - mending as metaphor

1 - Prologue