What a joy to be able to share my textile painting Forza Vitale: Breathe (67 x 106 cm) in The New Quilt 2024 on exhibition at Hawkesbury Regional Gallery, Windsor, New South Wales until 23 June 2024.
I first conceived the Forza Vitale series in late 2022 as the world emerged from the COVID pandemic. Australian borders were open again and it seemed fitting to embrace life with new gusto. My husband’s glioblastoma (aggressive brain tumour) diagnosis in 2023 and subsequent death has prompted fresh questions. What is the energy that brings things alive and gives them vitality? How do we respond when circumstances deplete our deepest reserves? How do we keep going?
Learning to Breathe
Breathe is inspired by the ocean view from my home in Copacabana and my husband’s love of swimming. The rhythm of the ocean waves is a reminder of the importance of breathing. In. Out. Repeat. Now it feels like I am learning to breathe all over again.
I have had limited studio time in the past year. It was reassuring to draw upon my creative muscle memory. I started with a rough digital sketch on my iPad (I use the Sketchclub app). I also dyed some new aqua fabrics.
As I pieced the wave motif, I developed a rhythm and calmed some of the worries swirling around. Intensive machine stitching consolidates and reinforces the linear design.
The New Quilt 2024
The New Quilt is a juried survey exhibition presented by QuiltNSW showcasing the art of the quilt form. View the exhibition at Hawkesbury Regional Gallery until 23 June 2024 or online.
candy says
Beautiful work & inspiration Brenda.
Breathe & let waves of emotion wash over you like the tides of the ocean that come & go