So, my exhibition was finally looming which is always a great motivator to get things done.
In fact there was a high level of panic (as always) which did produce results but, on reflection, I would now do it all very differently.
Ironically, having now completed my residency I feel all the ideas are suddenly rushing in and there are many things I have left undone which, without the deadline, I can ponder and complete at my own pace. So I will keep this blog open for the time being with space to add new stuff as it emerges. “Stuff” in this instance is not slang but a generative term to cover a range of outputs!
The exhibition was a joint venture of four of us, all producing work in response to the Mill and Mill Archive. Between us we produced very diverse, and personal responses to the site and whilst most of them were textile based, this is where the similarity ended. Setting up the exhibition therefore commanded a joint and co-ordinated approach of co-operation to produce a cohesive curated whole. This took longer than we thought but was worth the effort and I feel the overall result was a space which drew the viewer in and encouraged exploration rather than simple viewing. This was backed up by feedback from the gallery staff who reported that visitors were staying much longer to look at the work.
Despite reservations about my own work, I have to say that the overall exhibition was a delight to see and one of the best I have been lucky enough to be involved with. Thank you everyone!
Below are a few photos of the exhibition and my work. I hope you enjoy viewing them.

Robot Wallpaper Great fun to make and reminds me of 1970’s kids wallpapers….or maybe some sort of futuristic tartan!!

Objects of Desire
Casts made from some of the many objects found in and around the Mill.
Looms in the weaving shed have been great inspiration for colour as well as form.
The Finishing Shed – to be demolished shortly. Nothing lasts forever….
Barrows – one of the stitched pieces for the exhibition
Random Composition – Digital print on cotton canvas with additional infill embroidery. Textile Mill, Textile Response!