Company: Zoe MacDonell Design

Exhibit Name: Threading of Oneness

Design Intent: To create innovative fabric designs which embody the potential for the development of a variety of applications. Although I create many pieces myself, I have recently established relationships with specialised artisans in printing and embroidery. This opens up the opportunity for the production of some of my own designs, while maintaining the artistic integrity.

Although the exhibition pieces are created by myself, they act as a working prototype for the fabrics that I intend to use in functional applications.

The applied textures and patterning within my work are inspired by surfaces found in the landscape on both a micro and macro level. My work is layered, drawing reference to the different experiences connected with travel. The work itself becomes layered stories, and the creation of the work becomes a journey.

My new work develops the memories and essence of my recent journeys, unifying them with my home in Sydney. In January 2004 I completed an artists in residency program in Hill End (Bathurst Regional Art Gallery, funded by the Ministry for the Arts). In June/July I traveled to Europe mainly staying in Paris, London and Bath (UK). Late last year I accompanied my work to Japan for a group exhibition titled Tyranny of Distance in Tokyo for Tokyo Designer s Block 2004 , and then I traveled on to explore Nikko and Kyoto.

Description: Two textile pieces that will be suspended in the void of the Strand Arcade. These items will play with the space linking the levels of the interior, evoking the viewers to look upwards. The fabrics created will be double sided and will work well with the use of light.

These pieces will give a sense of fluidity and movement within the space. The techniques employed will include layering, printing and stitching. The focus of these pieces will be in the exploration of surface pattern and texture.

Production: professional artisans will complete the final designs chosen for production. The incorporated processes include embroidery and/or hand printing.

Volume: Quantity will be minimal in the initial stages to test the market and potential.

Market: I believe the created textiles will appeal to both genders and will be accessible to people within a higher income bracket. The consumer will be knowledgeable, sophisticated and recognise integrity, quality and the design behind the object. The purchasers will be confident and willing to spend on vanity and interiors.

The textile designs are distinctive, giving them a clear identity in the market. Traditional techniques are being used to create a contemporary approach to surface patterning.

You should know: MacDonell's work has developed from a strong interest in the quality of texture. Aspects such as the nature of tactility, surface and topography have been greatly inspired by travel, and the places experienced when growing up. Born in the UK, MacDonell spent time living in England, Africa and America, in addition to visits to Europe and Japan, before permanently settling in Australia in 1993. During 2005 Zoe is developing ideas and works for production, commissions and exhibition.