Traditional Techniques, Modern Interpretations

Rachael Wellisch combines traditional textile techniques with innovative approaches to transform household textile waste. Learn how she hand-dyes fabric using natural indigo and reconstructs it to create stunning sculptures and installations.

1. Briefly describe the work you do.

All of my work transforms discarded, worn out, or threadbare textiles, into polymorphic objects. No longer soft, flexible and lightweight fabrics, the sculptures become rigid, dense and heavy. Stretchy, cotton, jersey offcuts, otherwise destined for landfill are transmogrified into richly surfaced paper, with translucent fragile edges, in either long sheets or pulpy, solid sculptures. Cloth and paper are not simply substrates for another medium, they are plant fibers reconstructed, and materials rendered distinctly different from their original form. Post-consumer and industry waste products are deconstructed and then refabricated within the very contemporary framework of the ecological turn, using interdisciplinary modes of making. Conceptually I use monuments and ideas around mnemonics to reflect a recalling and relocating of our place within, and care for, the natural world.

2. What or who inspires your work and how has that influenced both your work and your identity as an artist?

I feel a responsibility to consider the social and environmental impact of the materials I work with, therefore my practice is centered on the transformation of waste materials, using a range of traditional and expanded textile techniques, for example, dye, stitch, rag-rug and rag-paper making, performance, photography and film. I cultivate and dye with natural indigo because its’ rich, global, history and processes reflect themes of transformation, connection, consumption, as well as slavery and colonial exploitation, making it a potent motif when considering ecological themes. Despite decades of activism protesting environmental damage, motivating cultural change still seems so difficult, however the current acceleration of impacts means it is something that I feel must continue to be re-framed and re-shared. My work, however, is not intended as a climate crisis scolding, or even an overt call to action, but rather a layered contribution to the conversation around being mindful of what we have, and how humans and the natural environment are deeply connected.

3. As you reflect on your artistic journey, could you describe the evolution of your identity as an artist and how it has exceeded your initial expectations?

Only in hindsight can I appreciate the breadth and depth of continuous learning there is in art making. Once objects are crafted and go out into the world, both myself and the audience will respond to them in different and sometimes unexpected ways in further layers of experiential learning. All of this is deeply enriching and provides ongoing connections to my environment, community and materials.

4. How do you view the significance of your contribution to contemporary art in a world that is increasingly shaped by technology?

The transformation of waste into something of value through slow, deliberate and hand crafted endeavour, challenges the pace of consumerism and technological interventions. In spite of the slower pace, it still offers a sense of hope by emphasizing potential, rather than despair, which may be a critical element in an age of frustration, fear and exhaustion within climate crisis discourse.

5. How do you see the future of your art and the art world evolving in the coming years?

The debate around levels of consumption and waste, particularly in so-called affluent countries, has existed for decades, however the volume of textiles both being purchased and also being discarded into landfill every year continues to rise. This means it requires ongoing discussion. The arts help to process information and emotions, particularly in times of crisis, playing an essential part of a diverse approach towards sustainability.

6. Get inspired!

INSTAGRAM: @rachael_wellisch
WEBSITE: rachaelwellisch.com