I
have recently been working with a combination of crochet and felt to create
3-dimensional objects as opposed to just flat fabrics. Throughout this project,
the adaptable qualities of the felt and crochet, and the almost sculptural
forms which I have created are what have been important to me.
My
inspiration comes from organic structures and naturally occurring patterns,
such as the Golden Ratio and the Fibonacci Sequence. This whole project has
stemmed from the utilisation of repetition and the multiplication of simple
shapes inspired by nature, particularly coral and marine life.
When
packed closely together, each little pod takes on a rough, polygonal outline,
like the hexagonal cells of a beehive or Favites Coral. Comparisons could be
made across nature, but due to the simple and uncontrived nature of their
design, the pods do not resemble any one thing in particular. I like to think
that they are something in their own right.
The
use of soft, neutral tones and the material help create a real, tangible and
organic feel. Each pod is similar, yet unique and together they form a single
pattern, a quiet unity. I chose grey to create a dark interior of an uncertain
depth, into which can’t easily be seen. Upon inspection, you almost expect some
strange creature to creep out of the holes, yet from some angles you can’t
quite tell if the holes are there at all or if it is just a trick of the eye.
I
know that I have only just “scratched the surface” with the art of felting and
would love to develop my skills further and improve my method and techniques in
felted sculpture.
