2023 Wangaratta Contemporary Textile Award Residency and Workshops
Published on 07 June 2023
Wangaratta Art Gallery is delighted to announce the upcoming residency and workshops led by acclaimed artist Mary Elizabeth Barron as part of a series of events and programs accompanying the 2023 Wangaratta Contemporary Textile Award (WCTA).
Barron's residency and workshops will provide a unique opportunity for participants to explore the art of bobbin lacemaking and create contemporary pieces using recycled materials.
Known for her passion for craft, her innovative use of materials, and large-scale lace works, Barron has been practicing various craft techniques since childhood.
Barron's artistic practice primarily revolves around sewing, papermaking, basketry, and bobbin lacemaking, with a particular focus on utilising waste materials and addressing themes of family, women's work, memory, and environmental concerns.
During her residency Barron will lead workshops introducing participants to the art of bobbin lacemaking, a weaving technique dating back to the late 1400s. Taking a contemporary approach, participants will explore the use of thread created from waste plastic to craft unique pieces that will contribute to an installation work inspired by the architecture of the Gallery building. This innovative approach highlights Barron's commitment to sustainability and her ability to transform discarded materials into captivating works of art.
Throughout her career, Barron has achieved notable recognition both nationally and internationally. Her works have been exhibited across the eastern states of Australia and overseas, and she has been featured in prominent lace and textile arts magazines. Barron's talent and contributions to the field were acknowledged in the international textile art textbook Textiles: The Art of Mankind by Mary Schoeser, a renowned author specializing in textiles. Barron has curated a group exhibition of Australian contemporary lacemakers and has enjoyed residencies at several Queensland Regional Galleries as well as a two-month residency in Thailand.
Notable achievements include being commissioned by HOTA, Gold Coast to create a new work for the opening exhibition of the new gallery, which now forms part of the Gallery's collection. Her works can be also be found in the collections of three other Regional Art Galleries.
In 2021, Barron's lace designs were selected for use as public art in the main street of Beenleigh, further showcasing her artistic impact on the local community.
The residency and workshops will take place in Gallery 2 from 24 June – 1 July 2023, with an Artist Meet and Greet on Saturday 24 June at 2pm – 3.30pm. All welcome, RSVP essential.
Workshops are free and will run on Sunday 25 June at 10:30 – 12:30 and 1:30pm – 3:30pm bookings are essential and interested participants are encouraged to book early as limited spaces are available.
For more information and registration details please call 03 5722 0865 or visit, www.wangarattaartgallery.com.au.