WINGHAM artist Gemma Cross has been practising the art of needle felting for over 15 years.
Needle felting is a relatively new practice; originating in the 1980s when American artists David and Eleanor Stanwood adapted industrial felting techniques.
They used a single barbed needle to jab at wool fibres to create sculptures.
Initially, Gemma began making needle-felted toys for her daughter, including storybook characters, and later created seasonal table toys for a local Steiner playgroup.
“My arts practice grew from this. Making art permits me to let go and lose control of expectations. Each piece tells a different story,” she said.
Gemma has been a finalist in the Manning Regional Art Galleries Naked and Nude Art Prize and won the People’s Choice Award in 2021.
Her current focus is on raising awareness of local endangered species of fauna and flora, as well as the connection between humans and the natural world.
Her exhibition, “Woven In Her Rhythm”, opening at the Gloucester Gallery on 11 September, features a series of ghost-like sculptures of plants and animals not typically well-known – some are found in the Barrington Tops National Park and surrounding areas.
“I predominantly work with white wool and silk, which gives my sculptures the look of marble from afar and invite the viewer to consider these endangered species and how they are on the brink of extinction.
“I am asking the viewer to learn the stories of these species and to seek out their habits and environments respectfully.
“To sit within, hear and observe nature, and to feel the healing power that comes from a sense of gratitude and hope.”
Gemma hopes to run a few workshops while her exhibition is on display.
Charlie Lethbridge, the Gloucester Gallery administrator, told News Of The Area, “I am working with Gemma to finalise dates and times for workshops.”
Gemma will talk about her work at the official opening on Sunday 14 September, from 11am.
By Wendy BUSWELL
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