Get a feel for tactile art forms

A SHOWCASE of fibre and textile art is coming to Art Space Ballarat this month.

Ballarat Fibre and Textile Network’s exhibition Fibre Reconnections will be presented from Saturday, 20 May.

Convenor, Shelagh Douglas, said the group’s members will not only share their different approaches to textile practice, but take the opportunity to celebrate the network’s 25th year.

“BFTN is a dynamic, experienced and creative group which meets every month,” she said.

“The theme of ‘fibre reconnections’ signifies picking up the threads of friendship, creativity and collaboration through our textile art practices, making connections with other individuals and groups who have similar interests, and reconnecting with the broader community to demonstrate our involvement in the Ballarat Creative City program.

“The exhibition also aims to showcase contemporary fibre practices that draw on traditional and innovative skills.

“We are looking forward to showcasing our creative work during Heritage Week, and at the same time as many other exciting events in Ballarat.”

Local artists and artisans, mainly in the fibre and textile space, are members of the group, which was formed in 1998.

The group has exhibited at locations including the Ballarat Botanical Gardens, at the Ballarat Fine Art Gallery, now the Art Gallery of Ballarat, and at Fairbanks Eye Gallery in Sturt Street.

A launch event will be held at Ballarat Trades Hall on Thursday 11 May with guest speaker Alisa Tanaka-King, and people will be able to take a booklet which includes artist profiles and imagery.