Medium: Fabric Size: 260 x 265mm Technique: Embroidery
Theme(s): Metamorphosis; Catharsis; Healing
Place publication: Durban Publisher: The artist Exhibition 2017
Reference note: 'Rebirth' comprises embroidered textile pages bound inside a cloth cover. The exterior of the front cover is fully embroidered. The interior of the back cover bears the embroidered initials J.M.S.
'Rebirth' compiles a series of embroideries that explore themes of metamorphosis, catharsis and healing through the use of symbolic 'stain-imagery', drawing on Ancient Greek beliefs that evacuation of bodily fluids results in health of body and mind. The repetitive process of embroidery mimics the psychological journey from trauma to healing. Through the use of embroidery, issues of gender and domesticity are explored and the narrative is closely related to female experiences. The book format of Rebirth enhances the narrative effect of the series. The act of binding the embroideries together reinforces embroidery and sewing as metaphors for repairing and healing.
Exhibition notes: ;‘Booknesses: Contemporary South African Artist's Books’.