A Stitch in Time: Capturing the Colours of Australia

When most people think of Australia, they imagine the bright red outback or the blue water of the Great Barrier Reef. While these holiday hotspots are popular for their vibrant colours, there are so many other hues to see in this great country.

The Colours of Australia exhibition by members of the Hervey Bay Spinners, Weavers and Fibre Artists on the Fraser Coast in Queensland brings together artworks made in response to the inspirational beauty of the Australian landscape.

Hervey Bay Regional Gallery assistant curator Llewellyn Millhouse said the works showcased the deep sense of pride and respect that these artists have for Australia’s natural environment.

“As many members of HBSWFA have experienced living and travelling all around Australia, the land and seascapes depicted in the works are exemplary of the rich diversity of our continent.

“The works feature storm clouds over a desert landscape, mossy logs in a temperate rainforest, wildflowers carpeting open plains and mangrove forests lining a tropical estuary.

“Considered together, these works reveal the natural affinity between textile and landscape, bridging the undulating contours of land and sea with the texture and form of interlocking fibres.

“From the ancient method of drop-spindle to the modern motor-driven spinning wheel, the preparation of raw fibres into workable material is key to the aesthetic process of fibre artists.”

If you’re looking to get a genuine sense of Australian culture, the Colours of Australia exhibition is a must-see.

Colours of Australia convenor Lidia Godijn shows the major collaborative weaving project of the exhibition. PHOTOS: Jocelyn Watts

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Belonging: The backbone of community arts

“The art of spinning and hand-dyeing yarn was often taken for granted,” Mr Millhouse said.

“The derogatory term ‘spinster’ gives us some indications as to how this labour has been valued by the patriarchal cultures of our recent past.

“Along with other skills and productive responsibilities that are deemed ‘women’s work’, both the economic and the artistic value of fibre work has been perpetually under-appreciated.

“This dismissal of women’s labour is exacerbated by the intersection of age discrimination.

“Though the term ‘spinster’ is used less often today, the visibility, value and artistic capacity of older women continue to be undermined by our cultural institutions and in public culture more generally.

“In celebrating the work of spinning and weaving, Colours of Australia is intended as an affirmation of the vibrancy and expertise of the HBSWFA community.

“The beauty of this exhibition lies not just in each of the artworks, but also in the stories, skills and relationships that are fostered by this creative community.

“On visiting the group’s regular meetings, you cannot help but notice the joy and lightness held between its members; a sense of care, humour, connection and solidarity.

“It is these relations of reciprocity and belonging that are the backbone of community arts organisations, and which deserve further artistic recognition by contemporary art institutions.”

The nature of textiles

Textiles are often seen as a gentle art form, but there is great strength in their delicacy.

In order to create such intricate pieces, artists must have a deep understanding of both their craft and their subjects.

The fibres used each have distinct qualities that can be exploited to produce desired results.

Using colour is also integral to the success of these pieces; each hue can evoke a different emotion or feeling in the viewer.

In this Colours of Australia exhibition, the artists have expertly captured both the colours and textures of Australia’s diverse landscapes.

Hervey Bay spinner, weaver and fibre artist Jenny White uses a rigid heddle loom.

See Australia through the eyes of local artists

The Colours of Australia exhibition provides visitors with an opportunity to see this country through the eyes of local artists.

These artists have cleverly used textiles and landscapes to create bridges between the contours of land and sea.

As you wander through this exhibition, you’ll be able to appreciate the uniqueness of each piece while also marvelling at the overall cohesion of the show.

In addition to being visually stunning, the Colours of Australia exhibition is also deeply meaningful.

These artworks provide insight into how Australians view their natural environment.

They also reveal the importance that locals place on preserving and protecting our landscape.

This is an exhibition that will leave you feeling proud to be an Australian traveller.

The importance of art

In today’s fast-paced society, it can be easy for people to forget about the importance of slowing down in life and taking momentary pauses to enjoy what surrounds them.

Art has a way of encouraging us to do just that.

It’s a way for people to broaden their horizons and help them to understand they’re not alone in their experiences.

This Colours of Australia exhibition is a beautiful reminder of how connected we are to both our land and one another.

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Colours of Australia: A must-see exhibition

This exhibition is a must-see for all people travelling or living in Australia.

The extensive collection of works on display is a testament to the skill and creativity of the local artists and provides a unique insight into the Australian landscape.

If you’re looking to get a genuine sense of Australian culture, this is the perfect place to start.

Whether you’re an art lover or simply appreciate beauty, this stunning display will leave you feeling inspired.

So, make sure you add it to your itinerary when you’re next in Hervey Bay.

Contacting spinning, weaving and fibre artists

Running until 27 November 2022 at the Hervey Bay Regional Gallery, this free exhibition is open Tuesday to Friday 10am to 4pm, at weekends and on most public holidays 10am to 2pm. Check the gallery website for more details.

If you miss this exhibition or are interested in fibre or yarn crafts, you’re invited to contact the Hervey Bay Spinners, Weavers & Fibre Artists on 0457 366 738 or visit them on Facebook.

Australia is a land of many cultures and as such you’re sure to find other spinning, weaving or fibre art groups on your travels through most towns and cities.

You can also learn about spinning, weaving and fibre arts by visiting Shuttles & Needles.

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Hervey Bay textile artist Gaye Harris on a spinning wheel. Samples of her work are pictured above.

FEATURE PHOTO: Kate Campbell shows her one-of-a-kind, handcrafted scarf.

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