"Function and Form" Conference by Cork Textiles Network

This year I got a chance to attend the Cork Textiles Network conference in Cork for the first time. I think this event will need to be a regular date for my calendar. I could only attend one day of this 2-day event this year but it was definitely worth the trip!

In the morning there were 3 artist talks:

Deirdre Nelson is currently artist in residence at the Sirius Arts Centre in Cobh, Co. Cork. Read all about her work at http://dstitched.blogspot.com/ and she is looking for textile artists to participate in some of her activities there during March.

Diana Harrison's work has been widely exhibited (see photo from CTN conference brochure above) and you can read some more about her at http://www.clothandculturenow.com/Diana_Harrison.html

Aileen Johnston received the Award of Excellence at the RDS Crafts Competition a few years ago for her stunning 'Book of Hours' which contains her beautiful machine-embroidered illustrations.

In the afternoon I attended a workshop 'sketchbooking for textile artists' with Jenny Monks, a tutor at Colaiste Stiofan Naofa. The workshop was very enjoyable and helped me explore some new directions for a new series of work I am planning related the folklore of Knockma, Co. Galway.

The four pieces above are part of a series called "Aunty's sewing Box" which were included in the "Seamless" exhibition at Colaiste Stiofan Naofa which continues until the 13th April.

II Hemming lace and Harris tweed IV Twinsets and darning wool
I Silk stockings and tea in Ballincollig III Hooks, eyes and pearly buttons

"Seamless" off the body, on the wall: Textile exhibition at Colaiste Stiofain Naofa, Cork

My aunt was influential in teaching me how to sew when I was about 6 years old. I recently inherited her sewing box, filled with her threads and sewing notions for mending, altering and embellishing clothing. Some aunties may seem/seam so straight! But my aunty lived an interesting and full life in Ireland, UK and the USA. She seemed quite exotic to a very impressed 6-year old! These nostalgic treasures inspired a series of 4 8x8inch block pieces. (photos of the 4 pieces to follow shortly!)