Tapestries inspired by Tasmania’s iconic landscapes have transformed the exhibition space at Burnie’s Makers’ Workshop.
Towards an Origin is an exhibition of contemporary woven tapestry by Launceston-based artist and educator Michael Kay, presented by the University of Tasmania.
It showcases Kay’s innovative approach to weaving and dyeing, resulting in vibrant interpretations of tapestry as a unique, contemporary art form.
Cradle Mountain, The Gorge in Launceston, Maria Island, the Midlands and Shelley Beach on the East Coast are featured in this spectacular selection of work.
Kay has been a practising tapestry weaver for more than two decades and says his exhibition aims to remind viewers about the role of artists as makers.
“This is an exhibition of craft, the craft of tapestry weaving,” Mr Kay said.
“Craft is sometimes more accessible than art because it deals with making and materials, more so than ideas. It fits perfectly with the ethos of the Makers’ Space, which is all about a celebration of skills.
“Towards an Origin describes the internal process when I am weaving. It is my complete immersion in the creative act, where all senses are engaged and acutely tuned to each moment.
“To carry this immersion through a work that may take six months is a meditative discipline. For me, this is genuine creativity where the practitioner is changed. The artwork is secondary to this.
“Every craftsperson touches their materials thousands of times during the making of a piece and imbues each part with something of themselves – and so then, we put ourselves on display.
“There is nothing quick in this exhibition, so I am hoping the viewer gets to experience a little of this making process.”
Cradle Coast campus Arts and Public Programs Coordinator Joanna Gair said the University was proud to be presenting the exhibition.
“This is a comprehensive exhibition of contemporary Tasmanian tapestry from Michael Kay,” Ms Gair said.
“This exhibition bears all the hallmarks of a survey exhibition; in that, it provides the viewer with a 20-year perspective of Kay’s career and studio production.
“It’s a delight to be showcasing the work of such an esteemed artist and maker in the context of Burnie’s Makers’ Space. This work is very much at home here, both physically and spiritually.”
The collection was opened to the public on Thursday, 18 July, with Academy Gallery Director Dr Malcom Bywaters delivering the keynote address.
Towards an Origin will continue at Makers’ Workshop until 25 August.
