Duality Exhibition

Over the weekend I got to visit the exhibition ‘Duality’ by the Crossing Threads sisters, Kass Hernandez and Lauren Hernandez.

Crossing Threads work with large format weaves and also in the Saori inspired concept to their distinctive style. I was fortunate to have an almost personalised tour of the work which enriched the visit no end. Kass and Lauren have been weavers here in the studio so the exhibition has a special link for me too.

The circular piece above was woven by both Lauren and Kass and titled ‘Under My Skin’. It is a magnificent piece on many different levels. As I’m always looking at the technicals I was impressed with how they bought all of their styles and processes into the one piece. It’s meaning is infused with their exploration of what it means to be a Filipina and how they are bound by both Filipino traditions and Australian values. It is an identity exploration and I think, leads to a valuable contribution to our migrant histories, which many Australians, including myself, share. Then there is the creative partnership that they share as sisters. With its closeness and sometimes conflict, I think they have achieved a joyful resolution and collaboration in this exhibition.

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The exhibition is nearing completion on 29 Feb. It is held at Gallery76 which is part of the Embroiders Guild of NSW at Concord West in Sydney. I was taken aback by the vibrancy of the guild space and what they offer. It is a beautiful contemporary building with a library, research and meeting rooms, shop and multiple exhibition spaces. Other exhibitions at the same time were by weaver Blake Griffiths (Broken Hill) and the Wagga Wagga Embroiderers. Both were wonderful. The place was so friendly and inviting that I had to join! I do get carried away when I go places like this.