Rhianna Russell
Embroidery and textiles
Featured projects
Making the Unseen Seen - 1
A tapestry exploring the growth and spread of bacteria and microbes through the medium of textiles. coffee stained fabric (cotton), embroidery, wool and felt
Making the Unseen Seen - 2
A tapestry exploring the growth and spread of bacteria and microbes through the medium of textiles. coffee stained fabric (cotton), embroidery, wool and felt
Making the Unseen Seen - 3
A tapestry exploring the growth and spread of bacteria and microbes through the medium of textiles. coffee stained fabric (cotton), embroidery, wool and felt, Close up image.
Making the Unseen Seen - 4
A tapestry exploring the growth and spread of bacteria and microbes through the medium of textiles on a microscopic level.
Making the Unseen Seen - 5
A tapestry exploring the growth and spread of bacteria and microbes through the medium of textiles on a microscopic level.
Making the Unseen Seen - 6
A tapestry exploring the growth and spread of bacteria and microbes through the medium of textiles. coffee stained fabric (cotton), embroidery, wool and felt, Close up image.
Making the Unseen Seen - 7
A tapestry exploring the growth and spread of bacteria and microbes through the medium of textiles on a microscopic level. Close up image.
Making the Unseen Seen - 8
A tapestry exploring the growth and spread of bacteria and microbes through the medium of textiles. coffee stained fabric (cotton), embroidery, wool and felt
Rhianna Russell
My work this semester focuses on the use of textiles and the process of embroidery to explore the hidden world of microbes, bacteria and mould. My main focus with these pieces is the idea of interaction and the haptic (relating to the sense of touch, in particular relating to the perception and manipulation of objects), these pieces need to be touched, observed closely and engaged with. However, my work also looks into the theories surrounding the conflict between beauty and disgust, when the audience realises the subject matter of my artwork they may generate a feeling of uneasiness however curiosity may overpower them to engage with the artwork. Through the means of textiles, I am able to manipulate and change the forms of the threads, wools and fabrics to create this earthly, natural source that can be changed to represent the hidden world of microbes. I wanted to show bacteria and mould in a safe environment to expose this world in which we are aware of.
During my time at Loughborough University I have learned a wide range of new skills that will help guide me through the working world. The course has not only opened my eyes to new techniques and practices but also helped me navigate my own style of work.
Experience
Sales and Marketing Assistant for Aclimatise Clothing
Placements
June 2017 - June 2018
Events Assistant at CH&Co working with MASK, Eventwise and Venueseeker