VACMA: Molly Shearer

This funding allowed me to purchase weaving equipment and materials vital to the development of my creative practice. I was able to buy yarn for natural dyeing experimentation and weaving exploration, as well as equipment including a pern winder, shuttles and loom weights essential for the development of my art-home practice.

I had issues with my loom which set me back in being able to learn more detailed weave structures, and create large scale samples. Despite the setback, this funding has given me a strong foundation to be able to develop my practice at home. By having to think outside the scope of traditional loom weaving, I was able to explore different techniques alongside my initial aim of natural dyeing. Such as creating smaller scale textile pieces exploring delicate weave structures, deconstructing the idea of weaving, and playing with 3D textile form.

This award made a huge difference to the success of my project and development of my creative practice. Since graduation with a Fine Art Degree last May, I have felt stuck and unsure of what direction to take my work in. However, this funding has given me the freedom and means to explore new techniques and ideas, as well as develop key skills in my independent working which in turn has improved my confidence and inspired me to push my creative ideas.

Once my loom is in working order, the materials provided by this funding, as well as the push of inspiration it has given me, I’ll be continuing this project by creating larger woven samples. This funding has been instrumental in providing a launching step for me- as a recent graduate into a practising artist.

Image 1 and 2:

3D textile exploration looking at the environment for inspiration.

Image 3 and 4: Small scale weaving exploration looking at delicate and fragile weave structures in fabrics

Image 5 and 6: Exploration work – looking at deconstructing cloth / weave, experimental drawing and dye.