knotwork project is an ongoing project.

It includes coded mapping works that investigate and reveal a return to a humble repetitive handmade process relating to the form of the grid to create hybrids between drawing and weaving; drawing and sculpture; weaving and painting.

The woven threads splice space and also depict negative space, delicately defining the architecture of intervals. There is a taut tension that is expressed across the surface, contrasting with the cast shadow, and line and form modify each other activating the site within the work. 

The relationship between means of production and the support is revealed, which has always been an important element in my work. Line and form modify each other activating the site within the work, rewarding a slow intimate study of the relationships.

          undertow lb- 15231, 2021-2022

          cotton on hardwood stretcher

          715 x 970 mm

          undertow lb- 15231, 2021

          cotton on hardwood stretcher

          715 x 970 mm

This work was made during the many lockdowns that Melbourne endured in 2021. Like many people I experienced disturbed sleep and vivid dreams. One recurring dream was the memory of when I was 15 and almost drowned in the sea- swimming when it was a king tide.

This work was made while I was reliving that experience in my dreams. In the title ‘lb’ stands for the site where I almost drowned: Lurline Bay, NSW and 15231 is the total number of knots.

                          undertow lb- 15231, detail 2021

                          cotton on hardwood stretcher

                          715 x 970 mm

                                    undertow lb- 15231, closeup detail 2021

                                    cotton on hardwood stretcher

                                    715 x 970 mm

                framework k- 13122, 2020-2022

                hand knotted and hand bound cord, hardwood stretcher

                970 x 715 mm

                      framework k- 13122, 2020

                      hand knotted cord, hardwood stretcher

                      970 x 715 mm

In the 13,122 knots there is a taut tension expressed across the surface contrasting with the glowing colour and cast shadows in this hybrid between drawing and weaving.

The braided cord is Bricklayers line, used to mark out space in construction sites- in this work it activates the complex site within the work.

                           framework k- 13122, detail 2020

                           hand knotted cord, hardwood stretcher

                           970 x 715 mm

            network, 2020

            hand knotted cotton thread, hardwood stretcher

            610 x 405 mm

The thread is almost invisible against a white wall revealing the reforming and unforming of edges and connections. This work rewards a slow, intimate and close scrutiny of the tender relationships.

                        network, 2020 detail

                        hand knotted cotton thread, hardwood stretcher

                        610 x 405 mm