Residue
The impression of past generations through the possessions that they leave behind is the subject of this work, communicated through the exploration of embossed textiles that were once common, but now, though they may be treasured heirlooms, are no longer useful in daily living. These items range from decorative handmade doilies and embroidered handkerchiefs and dishtowels to more intimate items - articles of clothing that came in regular contact with the body. I experimented with larger pieces such as sleepwear and button-down shirts as well as careworn, vintage women’s formal gloves to speak about the power of the ‘thing’ to communicate ideas of femininity, protection, nurturing and lineage. The embossing, like a photograph, simultaneously communicates the presence and absence of the item depicted.
