Loops & Tangles

Boni Cairncross’ art practice is an ongoing exploration of time. She uses processes that unfold and reveal different paces: from the mediative unfolding of hand embroidery, the hurried actions of machine stitching, the slow seep of colour from a natural dye, the brisk impression left by a screen print, to the performance of task-based actions that stretch for days, weeks and months. Underpinning her process is a sensitivity to the embedded and overlapping histories of materials.

The artworks in this exhibition have many starting points. There was an article by anthropologist Tim Ingold that described the transformation of a line in two-dimensional and three-dimensional textiles. A long standing enthralment with yellow. The multiple two-hour train commutes to teach embroidery. The white and mint green striped fabric found at a market that recalled memories of people and favourite artworks at the same time. An artist residency in Mexico to learn how to make natural dyes for screen printing and the beginning of a fascination with one in particular – cochineal. The desire to approach art making in a new way. The need for an escape.

 Images by Document Photography.