STATEMENT

Tugging on Threads is an exhibition produced by Textile Inq. Art Collective. Based in Calgary or Mohkinstsis, these four artists connected over their love of textile work and aim promote critical engagement through craft.

Heather Kehoe uses embroidery as a rhetorical device to consider personal identity in relation to historical legacy. Her work reflects on imagery from art history considering how the images may reflect the complex interconnecting identities of the artist, subject, era, and viewer.

Dawn Mitchelson works in the medium of traditional rug hooking. Her work speaks to craft as an action of memory and memorial, and the valuation of women’s work. She draws on a feminist perspective that examines the roles and relationships of communities and families.

Sandra Sharkey is interested in the effect of the passage of time on memory. Her work uses the mediums of applique, embroidery and painting, often in combination, to construct personal narratives.

Chantal Snodgrass’ current work examines ideas of sending mail to loved ones as a tangible way of connecting with others. Her aim is to use art making as a means of self care and reflection during challenging and uncertain times, through card making, drawing and embroidery.

Together, their work explores how textile processes can be used to reflect on memory, history, and social health. As a consequence, their art provokes us to consider how our lives continue to reflect histories that are personal and social.