Inspiration... Its all energy

Created over a 3 month period in 2010.

Colourful textile installation piece, involving 5 individual hanging french plaits. Although dimensions are variable due to its installational potential, each plait's length is approx 12ft (4mtrs) long and each of the 4 sides are approx 25cm wide.

 "Inspiration... It's All Energy" was conceived out of the current state of mind I was in. I desperately wanted inspiration for a final piece, and frequently found myself procrastinating by playing with a hand held 'dolly knitter.' Little did I realise that I was unconsciously creating miniature pieces of inspiration.
This piece is open to interpretation, if people want to touch it, they should be inclined to, if they wish to hug the piece, they should. Some people have interpreted the plaits as tree trunks in a magical forest, others have related them to representations of the 5 world elements. (earth, air, water, fire, and spirit) Generally the air of playfulness arises when  people walk in and around the plaits. I like the irony that I was 'playing' with a knitting doll when the inspiration struck.

The materials used are colourful polyester and satin tubing, stuffed with wadding. (duvet material) The affects of the piece are somewhat playful, and draw the viewer in to touch and even hug the plaits, the piece appeals to all audiences; children love playing with the spongy surface and are drawn in be the colours, whereas it appeals to adults inner child.