A new day, a new work...

This will probably be the last work I make, which

utilises tiny fragments of reclaimed needlework - I'm

moving to larger pieces of embroidery and lace

and pinning directly to foam-core, rather than tulle,

in an attempt to save time and also

my back, arms and shoulders from repetitive strain.

It is a detail of a Laughing kookaburra, after Anthony Alder, who was

a Queensland taxidermist, painting in oils in the 1890's.

On being rejected...

 Going to Jackson 2012 - after George Raper's

Emu of Port Jackson, watercolour, painted in 1791

This work which measures 150cm high and is constructed

from reclaimed needlework pinned directly to Museum foam-core

has been rejected by the Waterhouse Natural History Prize in SA -

much to my shock and dismay.  It's a humbling experience being rejected

and an opportunity to keep the chin up inspite of knock backs....

 A closeup detail of the head - I love the way the pink lights

 are reminiscent of a sunset reflected on her neck

 The feather which Raper referred to being "of it's natural size"

there are probably 100 or more brass pins holding

 the delicate edging lace in place
(Photos by the wonderful Gavin Hansford, Melbourne)

Emu of Port Jackson painted in watercolour

by George Raper, first fleet artist, in 1791

held in the Natural History Museum, London