Jennifer Searles
University of Tasmania
Felt making pre-dates the Middle Ages yet it remains current
in the 21st Century. The
three basic requirements of fleece, water and agitation remain consistent to transform
raw materials into both robust and delicate fabric. Some consider felt a utilitarian material,
but today exquisite pieces can speak of glamour and delight.
The simple but magical process of transforming fleece to
fabric is perhaps what most attracts me to felt. Discovering the beauty that my chosen artist,
June Hope, has been able to extract from this practice has been inspiring,
sufficiently whetting my appetite to direct my path toward engagement with felt
in my future projects.