Two of the west’s most recognisable artists are sharing their secrets and skills in workshops at Footscray Community Arts Centre (FCAC).
Jessie Deane is holding a needlepoint master- class this Saturday, while participants in Going Guerrilla 101 workshops – with street artist Baby Guerilla – will work together to create a paste-up for the centre.
Following the success of her exhibition Needlepoint West, depicting Footscray’s iconic industrial landscape in needlepoint, Deane will be leading a masterclass in which artists will create their own needlepoint work.
“I enjoy the sensual nature of creating cloth, and images on cloth, and I find the discourse surrounding questions of ‘craft versus art’ compelling,” Deane says.
“I’m also interested in subverting a medium that’s traditionally considered quaint and pretty, to portray images which actually contrast to the domestic – industrial landscape, for example.”
Baby Guerilla says she wants her art to have a social impact and open people’s eyes to the potential that public expression has towards a greater good.
“I’m trying to enhance public space for the better, to improve the condition of the public environment. I really believe this kind of work can make a difference to the community.”
Her paste-ups have been steadily emerging across the inner-west over recent years, growing from small pieces to projects on an enormous scale.
“I’m not sure how people view the work, but the intention is to try and capture a sense of freedom.” Going Guerrilla 101 workshops will be held at FCAC from noon-4pm Saturday, February 8 and 15.
