Theshini Naicker | Layers of Connection

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Theshini Naicker, "Gossamer Threads 1"

merino wool, rayon fibre, cotton yarn, hand dyed silk organza and silk hankies. wet felted with shibori inclusion. Photo: Theshini Naicker. Image courtesy of the Gallery.

Inspired by nature and fuelled by imagination, this body of work explores the concept of connection. Raw wool and plant fibres have little structural strength on their own, however, the process of connecting layers of diverse fibres to create structure, texture and form is a deeply satisfying and challenging process.   Drawing on primitive wet felting techniques and a more contemporary use of a variety of plant and wool fibres, this process of transformation reveals elements of fragility, resilience, and strength, both in the doing and in the final product. Physical manipulation, use of wood veneers and the incorporation of various textile techniques such as stitching, knotting, shibori are used to connect the various layers.

The complex matrix of connection underlies all life on this planet, yet the journey to find and establish meaningful connections as individuals and societies, can be a difficult, yet insightful and liberating one. However tenuous our connections seem, as individuals, communities, and societies, embracing diversity and connection, helps heal fractures and allows us to recognise our common humanity.

In the words of John Muir, “When one tugs at a single thing in nature, he finds it attached to the rest of the world”.