Image:
Birgit SCHONAFINGER
Clay based decorated bowl 2022
clay, raffia and she-oak seed pods
1st Jul – 31st Jul 2022
Gallery Shop
Benalla Art Gallery presents WEave, an exhibition showcasing a variety of weaving techniques by five members of the Border & North East Basketmakers Group. Works include pieces made from locally collected natural fibres, paper twine and recycled materials including wire.
Participating artists are Marlene Carty, Chris Dormer, Shirley Mills, Birgit Schonafinger, and Kathy Whelan.
Artist Statements:
Marlene Carty
Weaving with natural fibres seems an extension of my passion for gardening. Watching nature, varying seasons and growth patterns creating a lasting sculpture to enjoy.
Chris Dormer
Working from my Beechworth studio, ‘Botanicus Finch’, I often use natural and recycled materials and combine these to explore new ideas. Hence works are a distillation of a myriad of thoughts and ideas that evolve and emerge one after another.
Shirley Mills
I owe my love of weaving and use of natural materials to my since passed, but very inspiring, mother-in-law. Through her, I became aware of the use of natural materials in weaving, and from there started to explore basketry in all its forms.
Birgit Schonafinger
I joined the group in 2018 with an initial interest in using foraged fibres. I have since included recycled and salvaged materials and paper twine, and enjoy learning new techniques, being inspired by nature and the creative challenge.
Kathleen Whelan
The exploration of textile materials using weaving and wrapping techniques is fascinating with the myriad of possibilities and combinations to achieve my personal and quirky sculptural pieces.
All works in the Gallery Shop are available for purchase from Benalla Art Gallery,
or by contacting the Gallery on: T 03 5760 2619 or gallery@benalla.vic.gov.au