Abstract Textiles: Colour, shape and pattern in textile art
Anne Kelly
Batsford
First thoughts?
I meet many students who find the idea of creating something which does not look like a likeness difficult - no matter what technology has come into fruition there is always the narrative in the background of making what we see, what we know. But how risky would it be, if one day we came out from under that protection - the known and walk into some excitement? Because that is how I see Anne Kellys new publication.
What is Abstract?
The TATE defines this as ‘Abstract art is art that does not attempt to represent an accurate depiction of a visual reality but instead uses shapes, colours, forms and gestural marks’.
Anne Kelly’s writing style
What I really like about Anne’s style is her lack of unneeded or frivolous sentimentality. She writes clearly, expanding on her points enough without telling and revealing too much either for her own personality as an artist or too much for our brains to take on board. We as readers, become children - ready to learn, yet we can only take on so much as we develop.
Artists and imagery
Anne could have just used her own work as illustrative connection, however she has generously shared her space with other artists and creators, all thematically connected. This is dually important as readers, we will all have our favourite styles and with this variety on show, we are likely to enjoy some examples more than others. It opens our minds up to visualise what is possible. On the other hand, for the artists and creators themeselves, it allows them their moment of fame - being in an Anne Kelly book is definitely one for the CV.
On that note, the images are carefully placed to marry the text. Where a close up is required, our wish is granted.
Workshops within
Well, what can I say. I have read many a Batsford book and I have yet to meet one with such a wealth of choice. From simple screen printing, sculpture (see page 31 to make an actual head sculpture), adding text to textiles, bag making for a reason, patchwork….I have to actually keep closing the book, walking my fingers away to take on another task then make my way back when the temptation is too much - it is just too much ‘child in a sweet shop’ - my opinion? Strong Kelly is in action!
The chapters
When I write reviews, I stay away from having a set list of headers, I am an artist and writer myself and I feel it is important to work with the book rather than make the book fit a review. Thus why my reviews are all different and not as structured as some. I want to give my flavour of the book I am reviewing.
I wanted to direct readers attention to the chapters in this book, namely their content. They really do cover some thought prevokeing areas which we can develop not in Kelly style - our own.
‘From Nature to Abstraction’ - maybe it is easier at first to make abstract out of natural forms?
Shapes and Colour - historical and cultural influences described in this section.
Surface pattern and Mixed media - as chapters go, this is exciting as we are encouraged to develop skills we may have felt beyond our reach or only to be done with ‘special’ equipment. Screen Printing is an example written about on page 64.
Following the line - more familiar to some?
Capturing Meaning - I loved this, maybe it is the emotional, sentimental artist in me…
Playing and Process - who wants to be allowed to play again?
Who will connect with this book?
Readers who want clarity, a let’s get on with it attitude, any level, any ability. It is approachable and not too high a level to read.
Final thoughts
On page 120, within Anne’s final comments, she tells of her hope - readers will be inspired. I think that is a given Anne.