here is where I am today with this. I am still not happy with it, but for now I am out of time.
heirloom death devices. An exploration of tradition by Ashleigh Spurlock.
Passing down traditions through generation is something that we have been taught to cherish and cultivate. In this piece I brought together two forms of utilitarian craft, quilting and knitting, that are often passed down from one generation to the next. I paired this with the knowledge we now have about diseases being hereditary. Over the last few decades women have been telling themselves and each other that having a strong and independent facade is the only way to present themselves. We are no longer able to experience sadness, to cry, to be so sensitive. For doing so would knock us back and make us weaker than our peers. This attitude has led many women to suffer in silence. As a fibers artist I feel compelled to create things that affect someone, everyone. I think as a woman as a being who experiences pain, thoughts, and compassion, I feel that it is my responsibility to bring such issues to light. I feel it necessary to incorporate “everyday” objects and techniques in my work for people from any walk of life to relate to. This installation is commentary on how people suffer alone, how its hidden away behind a closed door, beneath a pretty facade and too often we do not notice until it’s too late.
Hey Ashleigh! I love this concept, I hope that you stick with it and do further exploration into the theme. I know how easy it can be to get swept away in classes and life and forget to explore your best ideas.
Your blog is great, thanks for encouraging me to start one. I don’t really have any idea how to work the site, so if you have any tips for someone who can barely type that would be great!
–Erica (from Images)
Ashleigh,
I really love this concept. You really must explore this further. You have started a very interesting interpretation with your pretty nooses “heirlooms” that are passed down from generation to generation. The placement of the nooses in the closet is very appropriate.
This is such an interesting point of view and the work is lovely and soft, I enjoy the contradiction between that and the subject matter. It goes along with something I have been researching about the mind/body connection and how our repressed emotions and stress can cause the body to become physically sick (which is why I think I developed Celiacs, I’d be interested to hear what you think about it). If youre interested, take a look at Dr. John Sarno’s books, I have a couple you can look at if you want. You should def. keep exploring these concepts, its so interesting!