Australian Tapestry Workshop in South Melbourne, Victoria | Art gallery
Australian Tapestry Workshop
Locality: South Melbourne, Victoria
Phone: +61 3 9699 7885
Address: 262-266 Park Street 3205 South Melbourne, VIC, Australia
Website: http://www.austapestry.com.au/
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24.01.2022 The tapestry 'Plant Song' designed by Janet Laurence is now over 70% complete. Janet Laurence is a leading Australian artist who, for more than 30 years, has explored the interconnection of the natural word animal, plant, mineral through her multi-disciplinary practice. The original design by Laurence is a composite digital image created from her extensive archive of images of plants. The ATW weavers have selected a wide palette of lush greens to create this tapestry, inc...luding a high ratio of cotton yarns which are used to create areas of luminosity in the tapestry. ATW yarn dyer Tony Stefanovski has dyed three new wool tones and one new cotton tone for this tapestry to achieve the specific greens for the weavers requirements. Images: Work in progress Plant Song, 2020, designed by Janet Laurence, woven by Chris Cochius, Sue Batten, Amy Cornall and Cheryl Thornton. Photos: Marie-Luise Skibbe @marieluises @janetlaurence #janetlaurence #plantsong #woven #contemporaryart #green #flora #wip #green #verdure #millefleur #botanical #tapestry #weaving #plants #nofilter
23.01.2022 Join us for a free guided tour of the ATW for Open House Melbourne on the 24th of July. Guided tours allow special access to the weaving floor to observe our weavers at work on large-scale tapestries, galleries featuring completed tapestries and contemporary textiles and a view of the colour laboratory where our yarns are dyed for production.
23.01.2022 The making of the 'Hear the Plant Song' tapestry, designed by Janet Laurence, and hand-woven in 1527 hours by Chris Cochius, Amy Cornall, Cheryl Thornton and Sue Batten. Music composed by 2019 ATW Artist in Residence Rosie Westbrook in response to the tapestry. For the full video visit our You Tube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jDnSWmw_T7Y @janetlaurence #tapestryweaving #tapestry #austapestry #australiantapestry #australiantapestryworkshop #austapestryworkshop #loom #colour #form #weaving #weaver #handwoven #handweave #contemporaryart #artist
23.01.2022 Only five of the exquisite Miili Edition tapestries, designed by Brook Andrew, remain available for purchase. Brook Andrew is an interdisciplinary artist who, through interventions and curatorial projects, aims to make forgotten stories visible and offer alternative interpretations of history. ATW weavers Chris Cochius, Karlie Hawking and Pamela Joyce eagerly revisited Catching Breath through the weaving of Miili, an edition of 10 small tapestries and two artist proofs ...focusing on the subjects piercing gaze (Miili means eye in the Wiradjuri languge). These striking tapestries highlight the vital role weaver interpretation plays in the creation of contemporary tapestry and how decisions made on the loom can subtly shift the image. A once in a lifetime opportunity to acquire a Brook Andrew tapestry the 'Miili Edition' is available for purchase through the ATW. Please contact the ATW for sale enquiries or to arrange viewing +61 3 9699 7885 or [email protected] Images:Miili Editions 2019, designed by Brook Andrew, woven by Chris Cochius, Karlie Hawking and Pamela Joyce, wool, cotton, Lurex, edition of 10 + 2 A/P. Cutting off ceremony images by Marie-Luise Skibbe. #brookandrew #miili #edition #eye #woven #tapestry #atw @brook_andrew_artist
23.01.2022 Entries are open for the 2021 Kate Derum Award and Irene Davies Emerging Artist Award! Follow the link in our bio to learn more Entries close August 9! Pictured here is the 2019 Irene Davies winner, ‘Portrait of a Strange’ by Constanza Guerrero. The everyday ambiguity of sharing space with strangers has been thoughtfully interpreted in this graphic composition and refined tapestry-weaving technique, undertaken by Constanza. The Kate Derum Award for Small Tapestries honours K...ate Derum and her significant contribution to tapestry as an artist, weaver, teacher, mentor and former Deputy Director/Studio Manager of the ATW. Generously supported by Susan Morgan, the award is open to all professional Australian and International tapestry artists. Kate Derum Award for Small Tapestries: $5,000 AUD. The Irene Davies Emerging Artist Award for Small Tapestries was established to support early-career weavers in the first five years of their tapestry practice. Alayne and Alan Davies generously support the award, in memory of their mother Irene Davies, a tapestry enthusiast and avid supporter of the ATW. Irene Davies Emerging Artist Award for Small Tapestries: $1,000 AUD. Image: ‘Portrait of a Strange’, 2018, Constanza Guerrero, embroidery thread, cotton, 18 x 13.5 cm. Photograph courtesy of Jeremy Weihrauch. #austapestry #australiantapestry #australiantapestryworkshop #atw #textile #contemporarytextile #contemporaryart #handmade #art #katederum #irenedavies #katederumaward #irenedaviesaward #tapestryaward #prize #designaward
23.01.2022 Artwork Profile: NINA ROSS + STEPHEN PALMER (VIC) AIR19 Exhibition 24 March 12 June 2020 2019 Artists in Residence at the Australian Tapestry Workshop Union Banner 2019-2020, cotton, dowelling, 175cm x 150cm, with thanks to Hanna Tai, Remie Cibis and Will Foster, NFS... Nina Ross and Stephen Palmer facilitated a number of discussions throughout their residency, concerned with the working conditions faced by artists, and the possibility of change in the sector through collective action. These discussions took the form of public workshops hosted by the ATW, and informal meetings conducted in the studio, and these interactions fed into the creation of a banner for an artists union. The banner does not represent an existent union but speaks to the glaring absence of such a body; and is hence a call to arms to fellow artists and their allies. In our time at the ATW we were impressed by the support and interest in our project, which was expressed by many artists and arts workers, who either attended our events or came to meet us through their connection to the ATW. The ATW proved an interesting site to begin a dialogue with artists with a range of different backgrounds and experiences Nina Ross and Stephen Palmer. Nina Ross and Stephen Palmer are multidisciplinary artists who each have individual practices, and collaborated previously as part of the art activist group Artists Committee. Their collaborative works have generally taken the form of public interventions or discursive activities. They are currently working alongside a group of artists and arts workers to form an artists union. Nina Ross and Stephen Palmers residency was supported by the City of Port Phillip Cultural Development Fund. @cityofportphillip Documentation of the project can be viewed at: www.imaginingafuturecollective.com. Further information: www.artistsunion.com.au Photos by Marie-Luise Skibbe @marieluises ATW and Morganna Magee @morgannamagee @artists_committee @Ninarossartist #artists #art #residency #Melbourne #australiantapestryworkshop #online #exhibition #banner #stitching #collective #action #union
23.01.2022 Happy NAIDOC week! The ATW collaborated with Yorta Yorta, Mutti Mutti and Boon Wurrung artist Lee Darroch in 2021 on two small tapestries, ‘Lyrebird Songline #1’ and ‘Lyrebird Songline #2’, woven by Jennifer Sharpe. The designs are based on skin panel sections of the Lyrebird Songline possum skin cloak. These tapestries were produced through the ‘Regional Victoria Tapestry Project’ project, which arose from an effort to create opportunities for, and artistic engagement with..., regionally-based Victorian Indigenous artists and to produce opportunities for Victorian women artists. These tapestries were woven through generous support from Creative Victoria. NAIDOC Week celebrations are held in July to celebrate the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. The ATW acknowledges the Boon Wurrung people as the traditional owners of the land on which we create. We pay our respects to their Elders, both past and present. We are honoured to engage with the incredible creativity, knowledge and skills of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists. We are committed to developing a deeper understanding of the histories, cultures and rights of First Nations people through learning and listening. Image: ‘Lyrebird Songline’ tapestries, 2021, designed by Lee Darroch, woven by Jennifer Sharpe, 27.5 x 20 cm, wool, cotton. Photograph courtesy of ATW. #austapestry #australiantapestry #australiantapestryworkshop #atw #textile #contemporarytextile #contemporaryart #handmade #art #shortblackopera #deborahcheethamao #naidoc
23.01.2022 Applications are closing soon!
23.01.2022 Our exhibition 'Millefleur' - small botanical inspired tapestries from the collection - is closing in a few weeks. Designed and woven by leading artists and weavers, we have a variety of contemporary handwoven tapestries that would make the perfect special gift for a loved one or for your own wall. Don't miss out on owning your own piece of ATW history - a beautiful range of tapestries are available. ... Visit the Australian Tapestry Workshop 10am 5pm, Tuesday Friday to view the exhibition. Image by Marie-Luise Skibbe @marieluises #tapestry #gift #handwoven #millefleur #floral #botanical #weaving #contemporary #art #woven #tapestry
22.01.2022 Artwork Profile: LEE DARROCH (Yorta Yorta, Mutti Mutti, Boon Wurrung, Regional VIC) AIR19 Exhibition 24 March 12 June 2020 2019 Artists in Residence at the Australian Tapestry Workshop 'Always was, Always Will be Aboriginal Land' 2019, New Zealand flax, silk thread, gold thread, cotton thread, dimensions variable, $3,500 (for installation) ...Continue reading
22.01.2022 The Australian Tapestry Workshop is thrilled to announce the finalists for the 2021 Irene Davies Emerging Artist Award for Small Tapestries, celebrating excellence and creativity in contemporary tapestry by weavers in the first five years of their professional practice. This year 22 finalists were selected, representing 10 countries. The winner of the $1,000 AU award will be announced online at 6pm AEST on 21 October 2021 via live stream. To watch the award announcement plea...se register via ATW website: www.austapestry.com.au This year you will be able to vote for your favourite finalist online, the finalist with the most votes will receive the $500 Irene Davies People’s Choice Award. Voting details to come. --- The Irene Davies Emerging Artist Award for Small Tapestries was established to support early-career weavers in the first five years of their tapestry practice. Alayne and Alan Davies generously support the award, in memory of their mother Irene Davies, a tapestry enthusiast and avid supporter of the ATW.
22.01.2022 Artwork Profile: ROSEANNE BARTLEY (VIC) AIR19 Exhibition 24 March 12 June 2020 2019 Artists in Residence at the Australian Tapestry Workshop 'Signal-rings: Make do. A score for acts of resilience and resourcefulness' 2020, reconditioned Sterling Silver, wood, steel, brass, 5.55 x 25.5 x 2.5 cm, $850... I enjoy a work that speaks for itself, enacts something of what it says performs as an agent in its own meaning-making. This is where performativity and representation intersect, overlap with here and now, entangle with this and that. In the example of Signal-rings, shelf and rings collaborate with space and time, me and you. In unison, they tell of resourcefulness, of what it means to cause, exist or happen, bring about or create: modify; put-into action make and unmake, know and not know. In addition, these accessories remind us that we too may be called upon to make a ruckus or commotion. In thinking along with them Ive begun to consider the myriad and complex do that humans make. Some of which Im complicit in, some of which I wish I wasnt. During my residency, the vitality of coloured fibre and the movement of hand in relation to thread and knot entranced me. I listened along to the studio playlist and leaned into the chitchat over the cryptic crossword. My time on the workshop floor was spent thinking of ways to emulate the relationships between weavers and loom, colour and pattern, light and shade. I began to annotate the tapestry making process with stencil and pencil and crudely fashion letters of the alphabet into armbands using wire and remnants of tapestry wool. The Weavers Armbands, as I referred to them, collectively spelled out when adorning a sequence of upper arms m-a-k-e-d-o. The change of scenery, industry, and comradery of the tapestry workshop energised me and since the residency Ive begun to further my exploration of the connection between language and adornment. I'm considering writing an essay about it, but I think I will write it in rings. Roseanne Bartley is a Melbourne based artist jeweller, writer and educator. Her approach to jewellery is spatial and discursive, practised through social, ambulatory, artefact and text-based methods. Bartley has received national and international commissions for her critical and performative writing practice. In 2018 she completed a creative practice PhD in the School of Architecture and Design. Photos by Marie-Luise Skibbe @marieluises ATW and courtesy of the artist @roseannebartley #artists #art #residency #Melbourne #australiantapestryworkshop #online #exhibition #jewellery #silver #brass #rings #makedo
22.01.2022 Tomorrow join Deborah Cheetham AO & Linda Britten in conversation about their collaboration to create gowns especially designed for Cheetham's WOVEN SONG performances. These gowns were created in response to the ATW tapestries designed by Indigenous artists including Brook Andrew, Daisy Andrews and Nanyuma Napangati for Australian Embassies and High Commissions in Singapore, Tokyo and New Delhi. Deborah and Linda will discuss the creative response to these tapestries throu...gh performance couture. The gowns will be available for viewing in our current exhibition: WOVEN SONG Linda Britten Couture. Wednesday 11 March 6 PM. Visit the link in bio to book tickets. This event is proudly part of Asia TOPA and Virgin Australia Melbourne Fashion Festival 2020 Arts Program. @asiatopa @vamff @lindabritten @shortblackopera #wovensong #australianpremier #arts #atw #sbo #asiatopa #tapestry #vamff #lindabritten #couture
22.01.2022 Please join the Friends of the ATW for a special free lecture by renowned tapestry weaver Valerie Kirk, Emeritus Professor at the Australian National University, School of Art and Design. ONLINE LECTURE Thursday 26 November 2020 6 PM AEST* FREE TO ATTEND... Registration is essential. Attendees can watch the lecture live via Zoom. There will be an opportunity for the audience to ask questions at the end of the lecture. This lecture celebrates Valerie’s recent appointment to the ATW Board of Directors and the upcoming opening of the ‘Make the World Again’ exhibition at the ATW, which will feature her tapestry ‘Fossil’. Valerie will speak with ‘Make the World Again’ curator Kevin Murray about a number of her tapestry and textile projects. These projects explore natural and personal histories and investigate concepts of memory, time and the past as an imaginary space. https://www.austapestry.com.au//friends-atw-lecture-emerit *Note: AEST is Australian Eastern Standard Time.
21.01.2022 Artwork Profile: GOSIA WLODARCZAK (VIC) AIR19 Exhibition 24 March 12 June 2020 2019 Artists in Residence at the Australian Tapestry Workshop The Cyclamen Project 2019...Continue reading
21.01.2022 Artwork Profile: SHARON PEOPLES (ACT) AIR19 Exhibition 24 March 12 June 2020 2019 Artists in Residence at the Australian Tapestry Workshop Melbourne Gardener 2019/20 Machine embroidery, nylon, rayon polyester thread, cotton, 162 x 92 cm... The residency allowed me to step inside the Secret Garden, the inner garden. This piece begins a new body of work and here Ive started with the garden of my childhood in Melbourne. The use of lace-like textiles underscores the idea of the fragility of memory the lilly pilly and the Kowhai trees, the roses, the pansies, the fuchsias and geraniums. I have based Melbourne Gardener on a print of a female warrior, A Young Daughter of the Picts by Jacques Le Moyne de Morgues, ca. 1533. I recognise my own war against nature in my suburban garden, getting rid of pests and weeds, straightening up rows of vegetables, mowing the lawn, clipping bushes, walking around with secateurs in hand as I water. During the residency I became interested in the bodys enclosure, the physical envelopment of the skin, the division of the body into organs and parts as well as the psychological containment and tending of the inner garden. Sharon Peoples is an artist who has been working in Canberra for over 25 years. She has exhibited nationally and internationally, as well as creating commissioned work. Her art practice focuses on textiles, both hand and machine embroidery. Her work has been collected by national and state institutions including the National Gallery of Australia, National Museum of Australia and the Parliament House Collection. Over the last fifteen years she has been developing techniques in machine embroidery on soluble fabric, which has resulted in lace-like patterning with metal and rayon/polyester threads. This fragility is mirrored in the ideas behind the work. Photos by Marie-Luise Skibbe @marieluises @peopsh #artists #art #residency #Melbourne #australiantapestryworkshop #online #exhibition #embroidery #garden #nature #Melbourne #gardener #body
19.01.2022 The ATW will take part in Open House Melbourne 2021 on Saturday 24 June 2021. Guided tours allow special access to the weaving floor to observe our weavers at work on large-scale tapestries, galleries featuring contemporary tapestries and a view of the colour laboratory where the yarns are dyed for the tapestries. Thrive Festival, a celebration of local Deaf and Disabled Artists will run alongside Open House Melbourne. The Emerald Hill precinct will come alive with exhibit...ions, activities and performances from local Deaf and Disabled artists. The ATW will be running an AUSLAN Interpreted Tour and an Audio Described Tour as part of the festival. GUIDED TOURS: 10am, 12pm, 1pm, 3pm, 4pm THRIVE FESTIVAL TOURS: 11am (Thrive Festival Accessible Tour AUSLAN Interpreted) 2pm (Thrive Festival Accessible Tour Audio Described) Booking link in bio. Tours will run for approximately 30 minutes. There will be a maximum of 30 people per tour. Entry to the ATW for Open House Melbourne is by prebooked tour only. @openhousemelb @artsaccessvic Booking Link: Please add this to link tree https://www.austapestry.com.au/co/open-house-melbourne-2021 Image: 'The Declaration of the Rights of the Child' 2018, artwork by Emily Floyd, woven by Jennifer Sharpe, Chris Cochius and Pamela Joyce, wool and cotton, 2.0 x 1.4m each. Artwork courtesy of the artist and Anna Schwartz Gallery. Photo: Jeremy Weihrauch.
19.01.2022 Our friends at Sydney Opera House have launched a new podcast series with design enthusiast Tim Ross, unravelling the fascinating stories behind the four magnificent tapestries of the House. Just released, is the fourth and final episode, which explores Jørn Utzon's 'Homage to C.P.E Bach' which was handwoven at the Australian Tapestry Workshop in 2004. All four episodes are available to stream through the Sydney Opera House website. ... https://www.sydneyoperahouse.com//podca/house-stories.html See more
19.01.2022 Artwork Profile: ADRIAN LAZZARO (VIC) AIR19 Exhibition 24 March 12 June 2020 2019 Artists in Residence at the Australian Tapestry Workshop Clockwise from left: ... 'Brain Freeze Sexy Lady' 2018 Calico, cotton thread, marker, paint pen and found object on material, 60 x 32.5 x 2.5 cm 'Mad Hatter' 2019 Thread and twine tapestry with marker, 48 x 26 cm 'The Big Strong Golden Boy' 2018 Cotton thread, marker, material and paint pen on calico, 51.5 x 42.5 x 0.5 cm I liked working at the Australian Tapestry Workshop, as it was so different to the studio I usually work in at Arts Project Australia. I found it quiet at first and wasnt sure, then I realised how nice it is to work that way, without noise and disruption. I found all the staff nice and friendly. Pam was very complimentary of my work and really seemed to take my work. I found that everyone was supportive and having Lyn and Jodie from Arts Project really helped me a lot. The artist talk was fun. I really enjoyed the opportunity to talk to people about my work and answer questions in a comfortable space with a lot of familiar faces that came to watch. Until the residency happened, I hadnt done any weaving, so being shown the basics was good. I made a small tapestry from a picture of the Mad Hatter from Alices Adventures in Wonderland, which I finished back at Arts Project, once I had completed my residency. I enjoyed my time in South Melbourne and it has made my artwork better. Primarily working across painting, drawing digital art and fabric art, Adrian Lazzaros practice references themes relating to figures of wrestlers, vampires, zombies, toys and subjects from imaginary worlds. Often using gouache, acrylic and paint pen, Lazzaros imagery blends sinister interpretations of the world he acutely observes, combined with his trademark quirky sense of humour. Lazzaro (born 1985) has been a regular studio artist at Arts Project Australia since 2004. Hes regularly exhibited in group shows in Australia and overseas, including Spring 1883, The Establishment, Sydney; Now the heart is filled with gold as if it were a purse, curated by Glenn Barkley, Arts Project Australia, Melbourne (2014); Turning the Page, Gallery 101, Ottawa, Canada (2014); and My Puppet, My Secret Self, The Substation, Newport. In 2018, Lazzaro was a finalist in the Petite Miniature Textiles Biennial, Wangaratta Art Gallery, which resulted a piece being acquired for their permanent collection. Adrian Lazzaro is currently represented by Arts Project Australia, Melbourne. Photos by Marie-Luise Skibbe @marieluises @zombielazzaro @artsprojectaust #artists #art #residency #Melbourne #australiantapestryworkshop #online #exhibition #textiles #weaving #drawing
18.01.2022 We are proud to share with you the recently completed 'Hear the Plant Song' tapestry, designed by Janet Laurence, and hand-woven over 1300 hours by Chris Cochius, Amy Cornall, Cheryl Thornton and Sue Batten. We are thrilled that this tapestry will join Andrew and Cathy Cameron's significant private collection of Australian Art. It has been a pleasure to collaborate with Laurence, and interpret her ethereal tapestry design during this challenging time. Image: Hear the Plant Song 2020, Janet Laurence, woven by Chris Cochius, Amy Cornall, Cheryl Thornton, Sue Batten, wool, cotton, 1.56 x 2.7m. Photo: John Gollings.
18.01.2022 Earlier this year, the ATW interviewed artists in residence Mark Smith and Dell Stewart about their artistic collaboration and the hands-on processes engaged to create Love Mobile for the Tamworth Textile Triennial 'Tension[s] 2020'. 'Love mobile' was created in the spirit of learning and working together, and celebrating the complications and tensions implicit in any relationship. Currently exhibiting at Tamworth Regional Art Gallery until 20 September 2020 'Love Mobile' w...ill then tour Australia with 'Tension[s] 2020' over the next three years. For the full video visit our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch
17.01.2022 https://www.austapestry.com.au/donate Our 2020 Transforming Tapestry Annual Appeal dispatches in a time of unprecedented and critical need for the Australian Tapestry Workshop. It is only with your support that the ATW will emerge from this extraordinarily challenging time with stability and strength. The COVID-19 pandemic has forced us to close our galleries and shop and diminished vital income streams. Implementing necessary social distancing practices at our looms has dr...astically reduced our weaving capacity. With only 20% of our annual operating income received from the government... we need your help now more than ever! Your support will enable us to adapt, stay afloat and, when it is safe to do so, continue to: - provide opportunities for ATW master weavers to collaborate with artists and architects to create extraordinary contemporary tapestries - share knowledge, pass on skills and provide insights into the fascinating process of tapestry creation through talks, hands-on workshops and exhibitions - offer a broad scope of independent tapestry weavers, artists, craftspeople and designers the chance to invigorate their practices by participating in our artistic enrichment programs and - provide public access to our inspiring Australian wool yarn palette of 368 colours all dyed at our in-house Colour Laboratory. We hope you will consider donating to the Australian Tapestry Workshop in 2020. Right now, you can make a difference. With your help, we will survive and thrive! https://www.austapestry.com.au/donate
17.01.2022 For artists and cultural workers financial uncertainty and precariousness of employment are nothing new - but the current crisis has magnified this situation considerably. The Artists' Union working group (2019 ATW AIR's Nina Ross & Stephen Palmer) has released a survey about working conditions in the arts, and the need for collective action in the sector. Please fill it out and share it with your peers!
17.01.2022 During this extraordinarily difficult time for the art sector, we are keen to support our broader creative community by telling you about some of the amazing initiatives that are popping up in response to COVID-19. We are thrilled to share with you TONIGHT's youtube premiere of Short Black Opera's 'Eumeralla, a war requiem for peace'. Focusing on a period of Australia's history based on the Resistance Wars southwest of Melbourne between 1840-1863, 'Eumeralla, a war requiem fo...r peace', was written and composed by the acclaimed Deborah Cheetham AO, and is sung entirely in the ancient dialects of the Gunditjmara people. This sold-out performance, recorded in 2019, features Deborah Cheetham AO, soprano (Yorta Yorta); Linda Barcan, mezzo soprano; Don Bemrose, baritone (Gungarri); MSO Chorus; Dhungala Children's Choir; Masters students from Melbourne Conservatorium of Music and young talent from Melbourne Youth Orchestras, conducted by Benjamin Northey. The ATW recently had the pleasure of working with Short Black Opera to develop and deliver the Australian launch of 'WOVEN SONG' a unique collaboration across cultures and art forms at Asia TOPA 2020. 'WOVEN SONG' is a suite of contemporary chamber music, composed by Yorta- Yorta soprano Deborah Cheetham AO inspired by ATW tapestries, designed by Indigenous artists and performed by Victorian and international musicians. The link will go live for FREE at 7.30pm Thursday 23 April 2020. https://www.youtube.com/watch
16.01.2022 Last year tapestry weaver Kay Lawrence AM delivered a fascinating talk at ATW - Stories of Loss and Connection - where she outlined her participation in three collaborative projects including Weaving the Murray on the Murray River in South Australia; This Everything Water in the Kimberley Region of Western Australia, and Womens Wealth in the Autonomous Region of Bougainville. Each textile project was been created in collaboration with other artists and communities and the resulting artworks communicate stories of loss and connection. Watch or listen to Kay's talk now on the ATW You Tube Channel.
14.01.2022 Due to the Melbourne lockdown, Open House Melbourne has moved to a fully digital program. In place of our guided tours, ATW will offer a special online talk with ATW Senior Weaver Amy Cornall on Saturday 24 July at 11am. Amy will talk about how ATW's large-scale tapestries are created at our light filled studio in South Melbourne. Visit the link below to register.
14.01.2022 Artwork Profile: DEBORAH PRIOR (SA) AIR19 Exhibition 24 March 12 June 2020 2019 Artists in Residence at the Australian Tapestry Workshop Safety Blanket 2019, donated woollen cot blanket, yarn, metallic threads, 124cm x 90cm, $500...Continue reading
14.01.2022 LEARN TO WEAVE FROM HOME! Places are selling fast for our ‘Introduction to Tapestry Weaving’ Online Course for October/November. Visit our website to enrol! Led by master-weavers from the Australian Tapestry Workshop, ‘Introduction to Tapestry Weaving’ is a remote learning workshop in which participants will learn the basic skills to produce simple tapestries on a small scale using the weft faced French Gobelin technique. ... Through instructional videos, downloadable handouts and live feedback and troubleshooting sessions you will learn advanced techniques using high-quality ATW dyed yarn from the comfort of your own home. ONLINE SESSIONS: Sunday 31st October, Sunday 7th November & Sunday 14th November 2021, 1pm to 3pm AEST. (Attendance in online sessions not compulsory) See more
14.01.2022 The Australian Tapestry Workshop is committed to ensuring the health and wellbeing of our staff and community and following advice from the government we have made the decision to cancel all public events in response to the current coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic for the coming weeks. This includes our AIR19 Artist in Residence Exhibition Opening Celebration on 31 March and our guided tours. At this stage we are continuing to operate during normal hours with precautionary m...easures in place, but we are closely monitoring the COVID-19 situation. We ask that people who are unwell do not visit and follow the Department of Health and Human Services guidelines and recommendations provided here. We will continue to review and update our operations in line with government advice. During this challenging time we will sharing our tapestry creation as well as our exhibition activities, particularly through our online channels. All of us at the ATW wish you and your families good health. Image: Work in progress: 'The Royal Harvest' 2020, Naomi Hobson, woven by Pamela Joyce, Sue Batten, Tim Gresham & Jennifer Sharpe, wool, cotton, 2.05 x 2.8m. Photo ATW.
14.01.2022 There are just 2 places left in our upcoming Braided Rag Rugs workshop with Ilka White. https://www.austapestry.com.au//learn-braided-rag-rugs-ilk Learn to make fantastic rag rugs using an off-loom, spiral woven braiding technique with a range of colour and design possibilities in this online two-part workshop.... Session 1: Saturday 28 November 2020 12.30 - 3.30 pm AEST* Introduction and braiding basics. Session 2: Saturday 5 December 2020 12.30 - 3.30 pm AEST Further design possibilities, tricky bits and rug finishing. TICKETS: $105 per person These sessions will be held online via Zoom. This braiding technique weaves in as you go so there is no stitching up required afterwards. Creating beautiful and unique floor coverings is possible using contrasting colours, or you can blend patterned rugs for a ‘carpet of flowers’. Gather your own material to recycle. *Note: AEST is Australian Eastern Standard Time.
13.01.2022 If you missed our lecture today with Mariana Ortega you can watch it now on our You Tube Channel. Celebrating 10 years since the Kate Derum Award was established the tapestry weavers selected for this speaker series will have been winners or finalists of either the Kate Derum Award or Irene Davies Emerging Artist Award for Small Tapestries. This series of lectures celebrates the diversity and scope of contemporary tapestry practice worldwide in anticipation of the awards.
12.01.2022 The ATW congratulates John Wardle winner of the Australian Institute of Architects 2020 Gold Medal. The ATW had the pleasure of collaborating with John on the 'Perspectives on a Flat Surface' tapestry in 2016. John's pixelated tapestry design was the co-first place winner of the inaugural Tapestry Design Prize for Architects and plays on the relationship between architectural interior as an enclosure and tapestry as a surface. During the tapestry weaving process, we had the opportunity to discover John's passionate commitment to craftsmanship and the handmade and how it has inspired many of his exemplary architectural projects. John is a most worthy recipient of the Gold Medal, the highest accolade of the Australian Institute of Architects.
12.01.2022 Applications for the 2022 ATW Artist in Residence program open today! ATW offers artists and craftspeople working in any medium and at any stage of their career, the chance to broaden their practice in our world-renowned residency program. Each year Artists in Residence immerse themselves in our vibrant studio exchanging knowledge and skills with our tapestry weavers and engaging with local communities through public program outcomes including talks, hands-on workshops, a...nd exhibitions. In 2022 there will be 5 places available for Victorian artists only (due to COVID-19 restrictions). Artists need to commit to attend the residency part time (at least 2 days per week for 6 weeks) or full time (4-5 days per week for 3 weeks). Artists working in any medium - not just the visual arts or textile-based practice - and at any stage of their career can undertake a residency. Artists will receive a stipend of $400 for materials costs. Visit www.austapestry.com.au/whats-on/artists-in-residence for full terms and conditions and to apply. Applications close on Sunday 7 November at 5pm See more
11.01.2022 Artwork Profile: ZELA PAPAGEORGIOU (VIC) AIR19 Exhibition 24 March 12 June 2020 2019 Artists in Residence at the Australian Tapestry Workshop To hear Zelas work please visit her website: https://zela.live/air19... Bergamot Rind I, Bergamot Rind II 2020, Softness 2020, Woven in Solitude 2020. Sound Recordings. Bergamot Rind I & II The Rhythmic material in Bergamot Rind I & II has been generated from a transcription process that converts image into rhythm. To develop this method of transcription, Zela observed the process of preparing a tapestry prior to weaving, focusing on the steps of transferring the cartoon of the image on to the warp. The first movement uses specific percussive techniques with brushes on the drums to mimic the sounds of the loom being warped up. The second movement focuses purely on the rhythmic content, honouring both moments of sound and silence. Softness & Woven in Solitude These two works are improvised responses to the textures and colours in the ATWs latest embassy tapestry, The Royal Harvest by Kaantju/Umpila artist Naomi Hobson. In these recordings, various materials borrowed from the ATW are used to play the vibraphone. These delicate sounds produce a sense of fragility, illustrating the intimacy that we experience with ourselves through creative practice. Zela Papageorgiou is a Melbourne-based percussionist whose practice focuses on contemporary, classical and experimental music. She is particularly drawn to performing compositions that include elements of improvisation and open instrumentation with traditional and non-traditional percussion instruments. Zelas practice also involves working with graphic scores and developing contrasting interpretations of visual notation. Papageorgiou has recently begun exploring the use of repurposed objects and materials to create custom built instruments for performance. She believes that using repurposed materials, familiar or foreign, allows experimental percussion to reach a wider audience beyond the New Music and sound art communities. These objects form a stronger and more personal connection to the audience, adding significance and context within a performance to resonate with new and diverse audiences. Zela is a graduate of the University of Melbourne, Melbourne Conservatorium of Music, completing a Bachelor of Music with first class honours in 2016 under the tuition of Peter Neville, and attended the Australian National Academy of Music in 2017. Photos by Marie-Luise Skibbe @marieluises and ATW @zela_ #artists #art #residency #Melbourne #australiantapestryworkshop #online #exhibition #sound #recording #music #composition #performance #experimental
11.01.2022 The ATW galleries, shop and studio viewing mezzanine will open again from tomorrow! We will be open for two sessions: from 10am to 12.30pm and 2pm to 5pm by appointment only. Please contact us to arrange a visit. ATW weavers working on 'The Royal Harvest' tapestry, designed by Naomi Hobson and woven by Pamela Joyce, Sue Batten, Tim Gresham & Jennifer Sharpe. Photo: Marie-Luise Skibbe.
11.01.2022 William J. Mitchell Prize - 2020 International Chapter Architecture Awards Antonia Syme AM, Director of the Australian Tapestry Workshop @austapestry. Congratulations @antoniasyme The William J. Mitchell (WJM) Prize was first awarded in 2012 by the International Chapter of the Australian Institute of Architects, to recognise the work of those who have contributed to Australian architecture in the international arena over the years, often in a sphere of influence running... parallel to, or in support of, usual architectural practice. This year the International Chapter have decided to award the WJM Prize to Antonia Syme AM, who is the Director of the Australian Tapestry Workshop (ATW), for her work promoting and curating the ATW Tapestry Design Prize for Architects (TDPA). The TDPA is an initiative of the Board of the ATW, which Ms Syme has successfully developed and promoted throughout our membership, be they located in Australia or overseas. Her encouragement and clear enthusiasm to encourage architects to enter the competition, or to include a commissioned tapestry in their work, has promoted not only the now rare and meticulous art of tapestry weaving, but has also enriched the work of Australian architecture on the world stage, through the significant commissions now hung in prominent locations around the globe. The International Chapter of the Australian Institute of Architects congratulates Antonia Syme AM for receiving the William J Mitchell Prize for 2020. ATW Director Antonia Syme inspects 'Catching Breath', designed by Brook Andrew. Photo: Paul Jeffers/Fairfax Media, courtesy of the Australian Tapestry Workshop @institute_architects_aus #architects #internationalchapterarchitectureawards #NatAwards20 #australianarchitecture #internationalarchitecture #internationalchapterarchiawards2020 #internationalarchitectureawards #internationalarchitecture #internationalarchitects #architects #AustralianInstituteofArchitects #architecture #architect #australianarchitects #architecture_magazine #architecturestudents #harc #architecturephotography #architecturephotos #amazingarchitecture #architecturelovers #archdaily
11.01.2022 Last week at ATW we installed the exhibition AIR19, a group exhibition of work by our 2019 Artists in Residence. Although we are closed to the public, over the coming weeks we will be profiling each artist and their work in the AIR19 exhibition through our digital channels for you to experience from the comfort of your home! AIR19 Artists in Residence 2019 31 March - 12 June 2020... In 2019, Australian and international artists immersed themselves in the Australian Tapestry Workshops (ATW) vibrant studio environment for our annual Artist in Residence (AIR) program. Residents exchange knowledge and skills with our tapestry weavers and engage with local communities. AIR19 highlights the broad scope of mediums used by the 2019 artists from sculpture, weaving and music to drawings and jewellery. The exhibition explores the diverse artistic approaches provoked when undertaking an ATW residency, and how this unique experience leads to the creation of new contemporary artworks with aesthetic, political or social focuses. ANA TERESA BARBOZA (PERU) @anateresa.barbozagubo ROSEANNE BARTLEY (VIC) @roseannebartley DANIELA CONTRERAS FLORES (CHILE) @dcf_artistatextil LEE DARROCH (REGIONAL VIC) @leedarroch3 AMANDA HO (VIC) @theweaversworkroom KATE JAMES (REGIONAL VIC) @k.h.james ADRIAN LAZZARO (VIC) @zombielazzaro ZELA PAPAGEORGIOU (VIC) @zela_ SHARON PEOPLES (ACT) @peopsh DEBORAH PRIOR (SA) @deborah_prior NINA ROSS + STEPHEN PALMER (VIC) @artists_committee ROSIE WESTBROOK (REGIONAL VIC) #rosiewestbrook GOSIA WLODARCZAK (VIC) @gosiawlodarczak Photos by Marie-Luise Skibbe @marieluises @artsprojectaust #artists #art #residency #Melbourne #australiantapestryworkshop #online #exhibition #textiles #weaving #tapestry
11.01.2022 With only 20% of our annual operating income received from the government... we need your help now more than ever! Your support will enable us to adapt, stay afloat and when it is safe to do so, continue to: - provide opportunities for ATW master weavers to collaborate with artists and architects to create extraordinary contemporary tapestries - share knowledge, pass on skills and provide insights into the fascinating process of tapestry creation through talks, hands-on works...hops and exhibitions - offer a broad scope of independent tapestry weavers, artists, craftspeople and designers the chance to invigorate their practices by participating in our artistic enrichment programs and - provide public access to our inspiring Australian wool yarn palette of 368 colours all dyed at our in-house Colour Laboratory. We hope you will consider donating to the Australian Tapestry Workshop in 2020. Right now, you can make a difference. With your help, we will survive and thrive! https://www.austapestry.com.au/donate
11.01.2022 This Thursday 26 November 2020 6 pm (via Zoom) join us for a special free lecture by renowned tapestry weaver Valerie Kirk, Emeritus Professor at the Australian National University, School of Art and Design. This lecture celebrates Valerie’s recent appointment to the ATW Board of Directors and the upcoming opening of the ‘Make the World Again’ exhibition at the ATW, which will feature her tapestry ‘Fossil’. Valerie will speak with ‘Make the World Again’ curator Kevin Murray ...about a number of her tapestry and textile projects. These projects explore natural and personal histories and investigate concepts of memory, time and the past as an imaginary space. Registration essential! https://www.austapestry.com.au//friends-atw-lecture-emerit
11.01.2022 Up close and personal with the warp and weft of our tenth Embassy Tapestry: The Royal Harvest designed by Kaantju/Umpila artist Naomi Hobson for the Australian Embassy to Indonesia in Jakarta. This tapestry is being woven by ATW master weavers Pamela Joyce, Sue Batten, Tim Gresham & Jennifer Sharpe. Naomi Hobson is a visual artist who resides on the banks of the riverbeds her grandparents were born, in Coen, Far-North Queensland. Her colourful abstract compositions act as a... link between individuality and a shared identity. Her continual inspiration is the vast traditional lands of her ancestors surrounding the town of Coen, and her culture. The Royal Harvest will take up to 6 months to complete before it is installed on long term loan at the Australian Embassy to Indonesia in Jakarta. The Royal Harvest tapestry has been generously funded by members of the Myer family to honour Arnold Hancock OBE, former Chairman of the ATW. The Royal Harvest, 2020, Naomi Hobson. Woven by Pamela Joyce, Sue Batten, Tim Gresham & Jennifer Sharpe. Wool and cotton, 2.05 x 2.8m. Generously funded by the Myer Family in memory of Arnold Hancock OBE. Work commenced December 2019. Photos by @marieluises. @naomi_hobson_artist #tapestry #austapestry #australiantapestry #australiantapestryworkshop #austapestryworkshop #loom #colour #form #weaving #weaver #handwoven #handweave #naomihobson #contemporaryart #artist #vivenanderson
10.01.2022 Artwork Profile: ANA TERESA BARBOZA (PERU) AIR19 Exhibition 24 March 12 June 2020 2019 Artists in Residence at the Australian Tapestry Workshop 'Retorno' 2019, paracas knotted with cotton threads and Junco, 190 x 65 x 60 cm...Continue reading
10.01.2022 As we slowly open up our gallery spaces we will be offering our weaving classes once more. Numbers will be strictly limited for these classes with a maximum of 6 participants per class. Led by highly experienced weavers at the Australian Tapestry Workshop, Introduction to Tapestry Weaving is an intensive 2 day class where participants will learn the basic skills to produce simple tapestries on a small scale using the weft faced French Gobelin technique. You will learn how to ...warp a loom, weave simple shapes and lines and explore colour, pattern and texture using high quality ATW dyed yarn in our light filled studio in South Melbourne. To book please visit austapestry.com.au/learn Introduction to Tapestry Weaving August Monday 3 & Tuesday 4 August 2020, 10am to 4pm Tutor: Tim Gresham Introduction to Tapestry Weaving - August/September Monday 31 August & Tuesday 1 September 2020, 10am to 4pm Tutor: Joy Smith #workshop #class #learntoweave #weaving #gobelin #tapestry #weave #yarn #craft
09.01.2022 Artwork Profile: AMANDA HO (VIC) AIR19 Exhibition 24 March 12 June 2020 2019 Artists in Residence at the Australian Tapestry Workshop 'Spatial layering' 2019, Linen cotton wool, hand woven, 155 x 90cm, NFS... 'Secret life of a tapestry' 2019, Linen wool, hand woven, 80 x 45cm, NFS Space is built by overlapping several bi-dimensional planes: thin, light and transparent planes. In this case, the transparency of each layer dissolving into each other, losing the sense of perspective and three-dimensional character. The shapes, therefore, become the space in between. How do we see things? What do we focus on? The layers of warp on various looms, the apron cloths, the frames of the looms, the architecture elements of the space, the essential tools and equipment required for weaving but they recede into the background once the weaving begins. The Japanese concept of miegakure: a spatial composition where it is not possible to see all the parts at the same time; to glimpse something that is hidden. This piece shows where my eyes were focused at the Australian Tapestry Workshop. A tapestry was sent in to the ATW to be professionally cleaned when I was Artist in Residence in June/July 2019. The tapestry was being cleaned for the first time since its completion. I started to imagine the fibres sitting on the wall, watching and listening to the going on of the space; and the stories that they can tell. I was able to be there for a period of eight weeks and could really feel the professionalism and working methodology of the workshop. The opportunity to see the process of a tapestry from the start, and to understand better the skills and artistry of tapestry weaving is invaluable. Amanda Ho was born in Melbourne but spent part of her childhood in Hong Kong. She draws on the duality of her heritage to influence her practice. She learnt to weave while working as an architect. In 2015, she began to refocus from architecture to weaving, starting The Weavers Workroom. Her interest in design, materials, patterns and structures, both from manmade and natural environment, continues to influence in her work. Inspired by Yoshiko Wadas lecture on Slow Fibre: the understanding of materials and their characteristics, Amandas work explores the individual behaviour of materials and their interactions with each other, thus manipulating them with calculated expectations. Amanda also teaches weaving at the Hand Weavers and Spinners Guild of Victoria and from her studio. Recent exhibitions include Warped Perspectives at Craft in 2019, Wangaratta Contemporary Textile Awards in 2015, and inclusion in the Petite Miniature Textiles Biennial, Wangaratta Art Gallery in 2018, 2016, 2014 and 2012. Photos by Marie-Luise Skibbe @marieluises ATW, Siri Hayes and courtesy of the artist @theweaversworkroom #artists #art #residency #Melbourne #australiantapestryworkshop #online #exhibition #textiles #weaving #loom
09.01.2022 Last year renowned tapestry weaver and winner of the 2019 Kate Derum Award for Small Tapestries Annika Ekdahl gave a talk at the ATW. Annika Ekdahl (Sweden) is a textile artist who designs tapestries marrying Renaissance and Baroque practices with more modern techniques, creating large-scale works in her own contemporary style. Her works can take up to one and one-half years to complete as she weaves contemporary imagery of animals, people, places into her narrative designs. Watch her talk, as well as our Friends of the ATW Lecture Series and Artist in Residence Talks on our You Tube Channel.
09.01.2022 The Australian Tapestry Workshop warmly congratulates our Patron Baillieu Myer AC and Sarah Myer, recipients of the Creative Partnerships Australia Arts Visionary Award. This award honours an individual or family that through their leadership, advocacy, practice and example has contributed significantly to the arts and encouraged philanthropic giving. Mr and Mrs Myer are the joint recipients of this distinguished award with Lady Potter AC. Mr and Mrs Myer’s philanthropic enga...gement in the arts and cultural sector is astonishing in its breadth, depth and duration - they have enriched our state (Victoria) for more than seven decades. Their support manifests in numerous buildings, galleries, collections and thriving arts agencies, including the ATW. The ATW is immensely grateful to Mr and Mrs Myer for their spirited and unwavering generosity and support over 44 years. We are thrilled that this year they have been recognised by Creative Partnerships Australia’s Arts Visionary Award they are outstanding and most worthy recipients. Find out more about 2020 Creative Partnerships Award recipients https://creativepartnershipsaustralia.org.au//2020-award-/
09.01.2022 Please note that the Australian Tapestry Workshop administration office including phone order operations will be closed for the Victorian public holiday on Tuesday 3 November 2020.
08.01.2022 Artwork Profile: KATE JAMES (REGIONAL VIC) AIR19 Exhibition 24 March 12 June 2020 2019 Artists in Residence at the Australian Tapestry Workshop 'Afterlife' 2019 ... Silk, wool, felt, cotton, linen and thread, dimensions variable NFS My experience at The Australian Tapestry Workshop was extremely inspiring and motivating for my practice. I found myself quickly finding my feet in a new body of work entitled Afterlife. This body of work pays tribute to my horse DArtagnon who died suddenly in 2018. This assemblage of fabric drawings are based loosely on my wobbly ink drawings of dissected horse gear such as saddle flaps, stirrups, buckles, rugs, pommels, clips, loops and girth straps. Part horse, part something abstract and unknown. I wanted these pieces to look like a collection of funeral objects or offerings for DArtagnons safe passage into the afterlife and for my own continuing life after loss. I was immediately drawn to the incredible array of specially dyed tapestry wool on offer to the weavers at the workshop and began to incorporate various yellows from the shelves of coloured cones into my palette. I commenced the first and largest of the pieces and embellished it heavily with roughly stitched yellow wools. I was hooked! The work seemed to pour out of me in such a wonderful environment. The tapestry wool worked really well on the golden yellow fabric pieces that I had hand dyed with the oxalis flowers from the paddock where my horses lived and are now buried. The other yellows were achieved with using plants such as mistletoe, native cherry leaves, buddlea flowers, onion skins, dyers chamomile, goldenrod and weld. Yarra Valley-based artist Kate James draws from a variety of media to produce objects, textile works and drawings. In creating her intricate, hand-crafted and psychologically-charged sculptures and objects, James employs repetitive and painstaking techniques, often adapted from uncommon, sometimes obsolete, craft practices. James has held solo exhibitions at Daine Singer, Craft Victoria, Maroondah Art Gallery and West Space and exhibited in group shows at the Australian Experimental Art Foundation, Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery, Plimsoll Gallery, Level ARI, Plymouth City Museum and Art Gallery (UK), Ground Work South West (UK), London Metropolitan University (UK), RMIT Gallery, Dubbo Regional Gallery, PICA, Bayside Gallery, Firstdraft Gallery and Blindside ARI. She has a Master of Arts and BFA (honours) from RMIT University. Photos by Marie-Luise Skibbe @marieluises @k.h.james #artists #art #residency #Melbourne #australiantapestryworkshop #online #exhibition #textiles #weaving #naturaldyes #embroidery #fabricdrawing
08.01.2022 Artwork Profile: DANIELA CONTRERAS FLORES (CHILE) AIR19 Exhibition 24 March 12 June 2020 2019 Artists in Residence at the Australian Tapestry Workshop Circular inheritance 2019, Tapestry, dimensions variable. ... Circular inheritance is a research and artistic creation project dedicated to studying the constructive and creative possibilities of a textile ornamentation found in the Chimú ceremonial costume (Peru - 1320 A.D), a heritage piece that is part of the collection of the Pre-Columbian Museum in Santiago de Chile. This ornamentation corresponds to circular shapes woven in tapestry. Like any piece woven on a loom, tapestry is characterized by having its four edges at right angles, generally resulting in a piece that is a rectangular or square format. It is in this last characteristic where the particularity of the circular format lies, since it breaks with the parameters conceived by the traditional technique. My research sought to understand this form of weaving and take it to different creative, chromatic and constructive possibilities. This residency allowed me to develop all the points that I had thought to investigate, and also gave me the possibility of developing the project in a creative space, surrounded by women who understand the ancient knowledge of textile arts in our lineage. Daniela Contreras Flores works and lives in Santiago, Chile. She has been primarily dedicated to the research and teaching of textiles and cultural heritage, both in a local and international context. She uses tapestry, installation and performance to examine the themes of marginality, inheritance and tradition. Contreras Flores was included in the 7th Biennial of World Textile Art in Uruguay, which took place in October of 2017, where she was the winner in the Small Format category. She studies art and textiles at the University of Chile where she specialized in Textile Art and subsequently worked as a teacher in the area. In recent years she has worked for various institutions, such as the Museo de Arte Popular Americano Tomás Lagos and Balmaceda Arte Joven, teaching different textile techniques linked to fashion, dyeing and tapestry weaving. Photos by Marie-Luise Skibbe @marieluises ATW and courtesy of the artist @dcf_artistatextil #artists #art #residency #Melbourne #australiantapestryworkshop #online #exhibition #textiles #weaving #tapestry #international #chile
07.01.2022 Artwork Profile: ROSIE WESTBROOK (REGIONAL VIC) AIR19 Exhibition 24 March 12 June 2020 2019 Artists in Residence at the Australian Tapestry Workshop To hear Rosies work visit: https://youtu.be/OK3MwpyU2Ow... Plant Song No 1 2020, Plant Song No 2 2020, Plant Song No 3 2020, electric guitars with additional piano and electronic sounds, played and recorded by Rosie Westbrook, mixed and mastered by Rosie Westbrook and Sean Kelly. Plant Song Music was created in response to the Plant Song tapestry designed by Janet Laurence. The compositional process was as follows: I recorded a series of improvisations onsite at the ATW whilst the weavers were working on this particular tapestry. The inspiration comes from the design and the tapestry itself, but it also comes from simply being in the ATW environment. It is very quiet; the atmosphere is very focussed with an intense level of concentration. There is a sense of anticipation as the work grows on the loom. In the improvisation sessions at the ATW, I was very aware of this atmosphere of intense concentration and aimed to create music that would complement the weavers concentration and not be too distracting or jarring; music with a meditative aspect. I wanted to create a feeling of air and lightness; this is most obvious in Plant Song No 1. After these improvisation sessions, I then developed the pieces as more fully realised compositions, whilst still wanting to retain a feeling of improvisation and spontaneity. I love working with the ATW, working with the tapestries, as inspiration is always exciting. Apart from the beautiful designs, the sheer size of the tapestries inspires an artistic response. The ATW is an art-friendly space, which encourages creativity and respects the creators. My artist residency has been a very rewarding experience. Rosie Westbrook is a classically trained solo artist, multi-instrumentalist and composer. She is especially renowned for her emotional and cinematic compositions featuring the bowed double bass; her solo albums and soundtracks have received critical acclaim. Westbrook has toured internationally with Mick Harvey (ex- Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds: PJ Harvey) and worked with numerous contemporary artists and bands, including Sean Kelly (Models); Dave Graney & Clare Moore; Thomas Wydler (Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds), both within Australia and internationally. Photos by Marie-Luise Skibbe @marieluises #rosiewestbrook #artists #art #residency #Melbourne #australiantapestryworkshop #online #exhibition #music #composition #guitar #piano #janetlaurence #plantsong
07.01.2022 The Australian Tapestry Workshop is thrilled to announce the finalists for the 2021 Kate Derum Award for Small Tapestries, celebrating excellence and creativity in contemporary tapestry. This year 53 finalists were selected, representing 15 countries. The winner of the $5,000 AU award will be announced online at 6pm AEST on 21 October 2021 via live stream. To watch the award announcement please register via ATW website: www.austapestry.com.au This year you will be able to ...vote for your favourite finalist online, the finalist with the most votes will receive the $500 Kate Derum People’s Choice Award. Voting details to come. --- The Kate Derum Award for Small Tapestries honours Kate Derum and her significant contribution to tapestry as an artist, weaver, teacher, mentor and former Deputy Director/Studio Manager of the ATW. Generously supported by Susan Morgan, the award is open to all professional Australian and International tapestry artists. See more
07.01.2022 An important update from the Australian Tapestry Workshop: In line with government advice, the Australian Tapestry Workshop will be closed to the public from Tuesday 24 March until current restrictions ease. ... We will continue to share our tapestry creation, as well as exhibition activities through our online channels. With your help, we can ensure the ATW continues to stay afloat during this challenging time. Please consider: - Making a tax-deductible donation. - Purchase yarn through our online store. - Becoming a Friend of the ATW. Your support will enable us to continue our work as an international centre of excellence for the creation of contemporary tapestry as well as provide education, resources and opportunities to weavers, artists, craftspeople, designers, students and the broader community. Thank you to all of our followers for your wonderful support of the ATW.
06.01.2022 Antonia Syme, Director of the Australian Tapestry Workshop, was honoured this week in the Queens Birthday Honours list for her work in the visual arts and marine archeology. This award of an AM (Member of the Order of Australia, General Division) is most richly deserved, and we congratulate her warmly. Those of us who work with Antonia and have followed her career know the great service that she gives, both in support of artists and their work and in this case the development... of the rare and special place that is the ATW. Through her tireless work, the designs of living artists are drawn on to create beautiful tapestries that represent Australia in embassies and public buildings and hold a special place in peoples homes. We are delighted that Antonia has been recognised for this long commitment to excellence in the arts. - Pro Vice Chancellor Su Baker AM, Chair, ATW Board of Directors Antonia Syme with The Royal Harvest tapestry designed by Naomi Hobson. Photo: Daniel Pockett for The Australian.
05.01.2022 ONLINE STORE UPDATE: We are pleased to be able to resume our online store sales. In line with COVID-19 government directives, ATW online and phone orders will be packed and dispatched every Monday, starting on Monday 14 September 2020. Please place your online order by 5 pm AEST each Sunday prior or phone order by 5 pm AEST each Friday prior to guarantee delivery. In addition to our range of quality Australian wool yarn, our online store also stocks other weaving supplies inc...luding warp thread, bobbins and small looms, as well as jigsaw puzzles and books to keep you entertained. https://www.austapestry.com.au/shop
05.01.2022 If you missed our special online talk by ATW Weaver Amy Cornall for Open House Melbourne you can catch up anytime on our You Tube Channel. Amy talks about some of the exciting projects she has woven at the ATW and shows how ATW Weavers interpret designs to create contemporary handwoven tapestry. You can also watch our recent 'International Speaker Series' with artist talks by tapestry weavers from all over the world, Artist in Residence Talks and our spectacular stop motion 'making of' videos. Visit www.youtube.com/c/AustralianTapestryWorkshop to watch.
05.01.2022 Need a yarn top up for your next lockdown weaving project? Ideal for tapestry weaving, knitting and embroidery our Border Leicester / Merino cross pure wool tapestry is available to you in 25gm cones. Specially formulated by and dyed on-site in our Colour Laboratory, the ATW’s range offers 60 colours, with six or seven shades of each resulting in an extraordinary palette of over 368 yarns. Visit www.austapestry.com.au/shop to buy yarn and weaving materials through our online store. We can post worldwide or you can organise collection from our South Melbourne store.
05.01.2022 Learn: Braided Rag Rugs with Ilka White Join Ilka White to learn to make fantastic rag rugs using an off-loom, spiral woven braiding technique with a range of colour and design possibilities in this online two-part workshop. Session 1: Saturday 28 November 2020... 12.30 - 3.30 pm AEST* Introduction and braiding basics. Session 2: Saturday 5 December 2020 12.30 - 3.30 pm AEST Further design possibilities, tricky bits and rug finishing. TICKETS: $105 per person https://austapestry.com.au//learn-braided-rag-rugs-ilka-wh These sessions will be held online via Zoom. This braiding technique weaves in as you go so there is no stitching up required afterwards. Creating beautiful and unique floor coverings is possible using contrasting colours, or you can blend patterned rugs for a ‘carpet of flowers’. Gather your own material to recycle. *Note: AEST is Australian Eastern Standard Time. Images left to right: Ilka White demonstrates the braided rag rug weaving technique; Ilka White. Photos: Mara Ripani.
04.01.2022 The ATW is thrilled to be selected as one of the buildings musicians can respond to as part of MERGE with MPavilion Open House Melbourne & Melbourne Music Week. MERGE is inviting local musicians to create work around some of the city's most interesting buildings - five winners will receive $2000 for their compositions! Read more in The Age today.
04.01.2022 'WOVEN SONG' Live on ABC Classic: 1pm, 30 September 2020 In February 2020 the ATW continued its exciting collaboration with Deborah Cheetham AO and Short Black Opera presenting ‘WOVEN SONG’ to Australian audiences for the very first time as part of Asia TOPA 2020. Tune in to a special edition of ABC Classic’s lunchtime concert program to hear a live recording of acclaimed soprano Deborah Cheetham AO and leading international musicians performing the first three compositions... in the ‘WOVEN SONG’ series. These compositions are lyrical and dynamic responses to the tapestries woven by the ATW that are on display at Australian diplomatic missions around the world. Performing with Cheetham and Short Black Opera are international special guests tabla master, Pandit Ashis Sengupta (INDIA), shakuhachi master, Reison Kuroda (JAPAN), mezzo soprano, Angela Cortez (SINGAPORE) as well as Melbourne based ensembles Plexus and Rubiks Collective and musicians from the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra. Recorded live in concert at the Australian Tapestry Workshop, South Melbourne, on February 15, 2020, by @abcclassic. Producer Jennifer Mills. Engineer Chris Lawson. This recording will be available to stream online until 30 October 2020. Link to listen: https://www.abc.net.au//short-black-opera:-woven-/12668976 Photo: Jeremy Weihrauch
02.01.2022 We are really excited to be part of #MERGE! Tune in and check out IJALE performing amongst our looms next Wednesday 25 November 6pm. A big thanks to Open House Melbourne, MPavilion and Melbourne Music Week for bringing together and including us in this amazing program of music, art and architecure.
02.01.2022 We're reopening! From today, will are offering 2 viewing sessions, each capped at 4 attendees Tuesday to Friday: Session 1: 11 am 12.30 pm Session 2: 1.30 pm 3 pm... Currently in the gallery is our Artists in Residence 2019 group show, which will close on Friday 20 November 2020. The exhibition features the work of the fourteen Australian and international artists including these New Zealand flax baskets: ‘Always was, Always Will be Aboriginal Land’ by Yorta Yorta, Mutti Mutti, Boon Wurrung artist Lee Darroch. We are thrilled to share this work with you during NAIDOC Week 2020, as it directly responds this year’s theme Always Was, Always Will Be which recognises that First Nations people have occupied and cared for this continent for over 65,000 years. Darroch says of her works ‘the large red basket represents the Land, our Mother. The gold basket is the sun the life-giver to all, finally, the black basket denotes us the people of the Land. This installation pays Homage to the Land and our role as First Nations People to be the Keepers of the Land and to care for our cultural sites and Mother earth.’ We are honoured to be collaborating with many impressive and exciting First Nations artists in 2020, and look forward to continuing to share and celebrate their work throughout NAIDOC Week and beyond. Visiting the ATW: We ask that you plan ahead and book your visit to the ATW in advance. You can secure a viewing session by emailing us at [email protected] or calling the ATW on (03) 9699 7885. To ensure your visit is safe and stress-free, we have implemented a range of hygiene and physical-distancing measures, including limiting the number of visitors to four people during each viewing session. Pictured: ’AIR19’ in situ at the ATW. Artworks left to right: ‘Always was, Always Will be Aboriginal Land’ 2019, Lee Darroch, New Zealand flax, silk thread, gold thread, cotton thread, dimensions variable. Photo: Marie-Luise Skibbe.
