Showing April 8 - April 15, 2024
"In my artistic practice, I use the concept of “Woolgathering”, utilizing textiles as a medium to create visual narratives. Inspired by the idea of woolgathering, defined as "indulgence in aimless thought or dreamy imagining; absentmindedness," my work aims to symbolize feminine and queer perspectives through textile-based media. Displayed in this show is my piece: “Milk of Dreams”. This work aims to portray mature feminine relationships and explore queer dynamics. Specifically, I placed these women in states of relaxation to assert their power through scale, intending to confront the viewer. The recurring theme in my work revolves around the intersection of domesticity, femininity, and materiality. By predominantly displaying the female figure and using soft materials, my art establishes a dynamic between material and conventional artistic forms. This relationship challenges the historical categorization of textiles not being included in fine arts, a narrative I hope to change through my work. Influenced by artists such as Sheila Hicks and Louise Bourgeois, as well as authors like Sylvia Plath, Patti Smith, Dorothy Parker, and Virginia Woolf, I use historical and literary sources to inform the themes and titles of my pieces. The representation of women in my art is central, combining my personal experiences with those of the women in my life. The repetition of stitching, whether through sewing or embroidery, adds a layer of precision to my work. This not only highlights the dedication required in creating these pieces but also aligns with the concept of "Woolgathering," where making these pieces is similar to a meditative process. Through this exhibit, I aim to immerse viewers in material, highlighting the medium's potential to create images. Ultimately, my goal is to share feelings among women and those identifying as queer, with the emotions conveyed through my works."
About the Artist:
Chelsea Moore (b. 2003) is an interdisciplinary visual artist. She is currently studying Studio Arts at the University of Guelph (2025) while living and working between Guelph and Toronto. As she progresses through her degree, she continues to explore themes of femininity, domesticity and dreams across varying media (including textiles, painting and photography). Currently, she is working on a collection called Woolgathering.
