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' WATERMARK' SOLO EXHIBITION

© Judy-Ann Moule

Ozquilt Network Newsletter #39 March 2001

The following text relates to the solo exhibition of works by Judy-Ann Moule, that was held at Redcliffe Art Gallery, Queensland, June 14 to July 22, 2001.

Judy-Ann is an artist who uses contemporary stitched textiles to create detailed and dramatic images that reflect a deep love of the sea. She "achieves the extraordinary realism of finely painted watercolours using layering and machine stitchery as an artist's brush, to paint delicate lines, shapes and textures." (Jenny Manning, 1999, 'Australian Quilts; A Directory of Patchwork Treasures'. AQD Press). Judy-Ann has chosen the textile medium because through layering, an illusion of water's depth and movement can be created. Whilst her pieces are predominately textile, the ever-changing surface of the water is often highlighted with washes of paint and pastels.

Drawing on many years of sailing experience, she creates images of coastlines and waterways that capture the depth, movement and vitality of the sea. To her the sea is a jewel; to be preserved and protected by this generation, for the generations to come. On one hand it must be respected for its power and beauty; on the other acknowledged for its fragility.

In these seascapes and coast forms, which are both real and imagined, the colour of water reflects its mood; from a blue day racing to the cyclonic conditions in Bass Strait that devastated the 1998 Sydney to Hobart Yacht race; from tropical waters to the silted beaches of Moreton Bay; from sea and beaches to swimming pools.

Judy-Ann trained as an occupational therapist, and her admiration for personal achievement against the odds has influenced her work. Whilst depicting the sea, the artwork includes images of people who engage in water sports, reflecting and emphasizing the bond she sees between the sea and the sportsmen and women who use it. Isabelle Autissier's stories of survival at sea are an example of this inspiration. Autissier's respect for the moods of the sea is echoed in her words: "it is grey, the sea is the colour of ashes and the sky is crying."

Another source of inspiration has been the commitment and courage of our athletes in the recent Sydney Olympics. In 'Watermark', Judy-Ann pays homage to our Olympic swimmers. Here she deals with attitudes and life-skills, issues of commitment, determination and competition, as they are fought out in the swimming pool. The water in the pool reflects the frenzied excitement of the race for gold.

"Water scenes worked in fabric montage have become my signature. The work for this exhibition continues to explore this fascination with the colour of water, and the mood it reflects. Changes in colour and texture depict its changing mood. The frenzied excitement of competing at Olympic level contrasts with the tranquillity of sailing on a blue day." (Manning, 1999).

© Judy-Ann Moule 2001
 

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