Still Life

Lately I‘ve been looking at still life paintings and photos; I find them peaceful, comforting. Just a few simple objects placed together; a space for reflection on everyday things. In the old schoolmasters house I don’t want an unnecessary clutter of possessions. Only things that are handmade, or come from nature, or have the mystery of a story behind them.

It’s my dear sweet Nana’s 98th birthday this week. She has given explicit instructions for no presents – she has reached that stage where she likes to give things away. Only a few objects remain in her small room: a bejeweled camel whose hump lifts up to reveal a cavity, a little basket of wooden fruit from South America, hologram postcards of running animals. But I’m determined to get round her present roadblock.

Working lately on a line of embroidered cushions; ones with old naval sayings,hearts & anchors. For Nana’s birthday, I ‘m going to make a little pincushion, inspired after seeing an article on WW1 soldiers’ art. It’s the same sentiment – things crafted by people away from home- thinking of what matters most.

Out & about on a job, little things for the old schoolmasters house drift my way. Some old inkbottles from the lovely Instagram discovered shop Drunk on the Moon. They are from the 1890s with jagged, serrated tops- disposable at the time, they didn’t bother to finish them off. The Glass Stopper at Mitchell Road has more beautiful bottles- ones with cloudy colored glass, covered in old writing.

Arranging my new collection on a windowsill with seedpods, banksias & and gum nuts. Australian natives have such sculptural shapes- they are unlike any other plants. I predict a new wave of Australiana on the way – it’s time for a fresh interpretation. Finishing off Nana’s pincushion; mixing beading with embroidery & an old photo of her– it’s very possibly gaudy but I don’t care. I want it colourful, exuberant, & full of life . All it needs now is pompoms…