Epilogue / Prologue

Epilogue/Prologue is an original art piece inspired by the shocking fact that the mass of man-made materials on earth now outweighs that of all living things. Through this piece, the artist explores her fears about the future, and whether the changing climate will lead to mass food shortages and wars over access to safe places to live. However the resilience of nature offers hope. The planet has endured significant climate changes and life has always found a way to continue.

The piece celebrates the natural world’s resilience and ability to adapt and thrive. The leaves and ferns encapsulate the wonder of fresh spring growth returning after winter, the vivid colours of unfurling fronds and new leaves, and their almost miraculous rebirth year after year. The opulent gilded embroidery on the screen emulates the ivy and ferns that cloak the furniture, highlighting the contrast between the transient state of human creations and the enduring forces of nature.

The embroidered chaise longue fabric appears to be a traditional Toile de Jouy from a distance, which is used to highlight the cognitive dissonance between the idyllic pastoral scenes and the real-world actions of humans. The design shifts from a typical rural scene to images of pollution, urbanisation, and environmental destruction, eventually leading to war and mass migration driven by basic needs for food and safety.

The ferns and ivy leaves enveloping the chaise longue and screen were embroidered using iridescent threads and soluble backing, which when dissolved, creates a lace-like, ethereal effect. The ivy leaves are also layered with teal and bronze silk brocade and shot silk organza which were cut by hand so each leaf is completely unique, as in nature.

Materials: Metallic and rayon threads, cotton canvas, silk brocade, organza, rush cord.

Size: w220cm x d130cm x h175cm | Available to purchase, price on application.