CIRCA 111 review

Tinahely: Mixed Threads at Courthouse Arts Centre

Mixed Threads was a recent exhibition of textiles and quilts by Joke Buursma, Katie Elliott, Helen Kavanagh, Valerie Mullally and Monica O’Brien held at the Tinahely Courthouse, Co. Wicklow. This large and comprehensive exhibit of machined and hand-crafted textile work was truly a feast for the eyes. In an eclectic mix of styles the work varied from traditional quilts to more detailed and abstract wall hangings. A sea of colour greeted the viewer as the sometimes simple, sometimes complex work was absorbed by the senses.

Themes and inspiration varied from monasteries to marine life, from forests to flowers. Some were influenced by travels abroad, for example Ancient Maya ruin by Joke Buursma (pieced and quilted by machine), others by Celtic and medieval life, for example, Celtic by Monica O'Brien (quilted in black thread and the designs worked in gold thread onto the mesh). Katie Elliott’s intricate cushions and footstools were made from hand-dyed wool and multiples layers of fabric to create the overall design.

The broad range of visual styles, varying scales and contrasting themes made this colourful exhibition highly accessible to the public.

Anne Henrichsen

Mixed Threads, Courthouse Arts Centre, Tinahely, January - February 2005

Article reproduced from CIRCA 111, Spring 2005, pp.102

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