Rosemary Hurrell graduated with a BA (Hons) in Fine Art in 2017. Initially inspired by traditional needlework Hurrell’s work gravitates towards abstraction, sculptures are created using free motion machine embroidery on soluble film which is subsequently dissolved, shaped, and dried. Once dried, individual pieces are hand sewn together creating the three-dimensional forms. It is a process that continually evolves and develops. The sculptures focus on texture and detail inviting the viewer to engage and observe at close range.
The question of memory is consistently present in Hurrell’s work, exploring the relationship between perception and truth. Hurrell is intrigued to understand how a prompt from our senses, a smell for example, can bring long forgotten memories to the surface, it is these memories that make the sculptures emotionally intense. The sculptures represent strength, fragility, delicacy and lightness that create an interconnection between fact and an emotional tone of unfolding and unravelling memory.
Self taught or art school?
I have always pursued a variety of creative practices, in 2013 I attended college in order to broaden my experience and gain an insight into working in the art world, culminating in BA (Hons) Degree in Fine Art in 2017.
If you could own one work of art what would it be?
The artwork I would own would be “The White Tower” (c1926) by Mary Swanzy. I enjoy the viewpoint, the natural forms against geometric shapes of the tower, and her choice of translucent earthy colours, it makes me feel happy!
How would you describe your style?
I would describe my style as abstract 3D sculptural embroidery, created using free motion machine embroidery.
Can you tell us about the process you use in creating your work?
There are several stages in the process of creating my work. The sculptures are composed of multiple pieces of machine embroidery that are sewn together, it’s a little like a 3D jigsaw!
Firstly the image is drawn onto soluble material. There are certain considerations at this stage, (i) the flat image will become 3D, (ii) depending on the density of stitching the final embroidery will change in size, experience inform decisions made at this point. When stitching is complete the embroidery is dissolved, shaped and dried. When dry they are pinned together to create the sculpture, I have insulation boards on the walls where I pin them and spend several days observing and altering the composition until I’m happy with it and finally hand sew to complete.
Who are your favourite artists and why?
My favourite artists are Mary Swanzy, 20th century Irish cubist artist. I particularly love the paintings of Hawaii and Samoa (1923-1924). They emanate vibrancy and energy, depicting the lives of the native people.
JMW Turner, specifically his atmospheric seascapes. The National Gallery of Ireland has an annual exhibition of his work which is always eagerly anticipated. Meredith Woolnaugh, Australian textile artist whose embroideries are informed by the skeletal patterns of Australias native flora and fauna.
What or who inspires your work?
The natural environment is a huge source of inspiration, never more so than now during lockdown. I am lucky to have a garden that is abundant with plant and wildlife and at this time of year it is wonderful to watch birds nesting or coming to the bird table, we waited with baited breath for the swallows to return this year, they eventually turned up two weeks later than usual. I appreciate these small events, especially now when so many people are confined to apartments unable to go out.
Where’s your studio and what’s it like?
My studio is at home, it is a small room that has to be micro managed for space. One wall has insulation board attached for pinning work to whilst in the process of assembling. There is also a large white board that I use for taking photos, the remaining walls have bookshelves from floor to ceiling. I try to keep the floor free from clutter!
Do you have any studio rituals?
I don’t have any studio rituals just an obsession to be organised!
How has the current lockdown affected your work?
The lockdown has had a positive effect on my work. Although I work at home the first few days were unsettling, but after that I got back into a routine and have produced a new series of work.
What are you working on currently?
My current work is a diversion from my usual influences and is based on integrating simple shapes eg squares, triangles and circles in 3D form, I have had fun playing with colour, texture and light. Presentation has also played an important part and I’ve been experimenting with different backgrounds eg. Perspex on textured painted boards that add more depth. Shadows are also important as they change depending on the direction of the light source.
Where can we buy your art?
My art can be bought by contacting me through my website.
rosemaryhurrellart.com
What are your ambitions?
My ambitions are to keep doing what I’m doing, enjoying the process of creativity, developing and refining my technique and availing of opportunities that present themselves.