Disquietude Trophy

Disquietude Trophy, 2013,
Bobbin lace sculpture made from embroidery thread,
32x21x21cm Kate Cotching

 The shape and style of this trophy is based on presentation silverwork produced in the mid 1800s. These presentation pieces were commissioned and given to dignitaries and state officials from “the people” to recognise their high status and contributions in shaping a nation. The trophy I have produced here soft and imperfect it is made from fluorescent green and yellow embroidery thread using an antiquated bobbin lace technique. Although it was not commissioned it too was designed to recognise the achievements of those who have not held positions where their voice can be heard but who's lives are greatly affected by structures imposed on them by those in power. When faced with limited resources, seemingly everyday tasks can require enormous effort which is rarely acknowledged. So, if you got out of bed this morning, this trophy is for you.

Disquietude Trophy, 2013, Bobbin lace sculpture made from embroidery thread, 32x21x21cm

This piece was Included in the Mildura Palimpsest Biennale #9

The makers (well packaged)

The makers (well packaged) is a bobbin lace 'doily' hand made by the artist over a period of six months, it references the unseen human labour required on to keep us fashionably and cheaply clothed. The work has previously been exhibited in a number of contexts and like the textile workers it depicts the piece is often overlooked It was first exhibited in a motel room surrounded by second hand production line clothing, where it was lost in the masses, for it's second viewing it was stitched onto a ruffled velveteen cushion and entered in the “prettiest cushion” section at the Cardross show only to be beaten by a cherry printed patchwork. In it's gallery debut, packaged in an a ostentatious frame, maybe the makers will get the attention they deserve...?