Gathering Moments IV
It's been a month of not accomplishing much due to family commitments and the early arrival of hay fever. It's really challenging to get anything done when you're feeling foggy. The next Sunday basketry session is scheduled for Sunday, September 27, 10 AM to 12 PM (Missed getting this ready for August!) and sessions costs $10, and a kit is $25. Why a kit? It gives you a chance to taste what its like and it isn't for everyone and thats ok. Please let me know if you're interested. As always at the ever-amazing space at Unique State. This venue fosters creativity and community engagement. It's a wonderful environment that enhances the experience, making it not just about the making itself, but also about connecting with others who share an interest in learning and creating together.
Procrastination Hamper
The hamper basket akka the procrastination hamper is coming along. I was fixated on making it a rectangle as an example of how to do that form. Kit the cat has a penchant for finding boxes to lounge in, and the box I was using for the basket's base became a favorite resting place. Each time I attempted to work on the basket, Kit would settle himself comfortably within the confines of the box - so no rectangle cause I forgot to do!
I mentioned it in the June session when a someone said why don't you keep it oval. It is interesting when you get so set on an idea that you don't see what is actually emerging in front of you. The natural fall of the window sash cord and the knotting of the sheets lends itself to the gentle curves of the oval.
The basket, in its evolving state, reflects not just the materials and techniques I am employing, but also the influence of my surroundings and the unexpected moments that arise during the making journey. As I continue to work on the hamper basketry, I am learning to embrace the imperfections and the unexpected changes that come with it.
Taking time
So what happens when a creative takes time out of what they do? Its not that they stop creating, making or thinking. Sometimes it's just looking at things in a different way. Taking a step back can help clarify the big picture and uncover connections and opportunities that were hard to see before.
I have been stitching some fabric found at one of the local op shops. I decided to try making a patchwork design by cutting the fabric into squares and sewing them together. I then top stitched the patchwork through to the under fabric of stretch material. I thought squares of top stitch within each square would work. Nope! Did the front and then changed for the back just straight lines through each line of squares vertically and horizontally. In doing it this way it is incredibly mind numbing but that's the point!
Even though the process is repetitive, it creates a soothing rhythm that lets my mind wander and reflect. In this way, creating became both a physical task and a mental exercise.
Top image: has the square stitching
Left Image: has the straight lines vertically and horizontally.
Spotlight Artist: Tegan Bailey
Previously highlighted artist Tegan Bailey has just been awarded Highly Commended in the 2026 @artfulartprize for her collagraph print Prosopagnosia II. The work will be exhibited at NSW Parliament House this September! How great is that!
"This work is a self-portrait exploring my experience of prosopagnosia; a neurological condition that makes it very difficult to recognise faces. As an Autistic woman, prosopagnosia adds another layer to an already complex relationship with social connection and belonging. In the print, features fragment, eyes float unmoored, and a face becomes an unfamiliar landscape. I'm so grateful this work found resonance with the judges, and I'm looking forward to seeing it on the walls of NSW Parliament House." Tegan Bailey, 2026
I encourage people to look at what artists are doing now and support their practice in anyway you can. Some its buying their work, others it can be making sure you acknowledge achievements and be sure to follow people and support their practice online and through socials. It is one way for artists, makers and creatives to get feedback from like-minded people. Creatives supporting creatives!
Dream ahead
Our next workshop is Sunday 27 September, 10:00 am–12:00 pm — come along and join us for some basket making, conversation, and creative procrastination. Take some time for yourself to unwind and let your creativity flow in a supportive environment. These sessions are also a great opportunity to meet new people, share stories, and connect with others who share your interests.
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