Brenda Gael Smith creates textile paintings and sketches made from a rich palette of her hand-dyed fabrics complemented by extensive, textural stitching demonstrating the transformative power of stitch. Abstraction is a persistent and insistent force. Working improvisationally, Brenda captures the essence of her subjects to impart a sense of wonder of the natural world and a strong affinity to place.
Daily walks are a creative habit integral to Brenda’s studio practice whether she is at home or travelling. By closely observing her surroundings, and taking photos, she has a bountiful inspiration bank that informs her work. Brenda also embraces the serendipity factor. From the dye pot, to the design wall, to the sewing machine, she is always open to the possibility of a glorious accident.
Brenda’s work has been exhibited internationally and nationally. Parallel with her studio practice, Brenda is also an independent curator, judge, mentor and teacher.
In my neighbourhood, the arrival of spring is heralded by a ruby cascade of bottlebrush in full bloom.
Calistemon Cascade (40x40cm) Brenda Gael Smith
See more artwork by Brenda at:
- Website: www.brendagaelsmith.com
- Facebook: Serendipity Patchwork & Quilting
- Instagram: @brendagaelsmith
Invitation to Exhibition Opening & Textile Talk
Australia Wide Eight premieres at Warwick Art Gallery from 14 July until 27 August 2022. The official opening by Julie Tasker is at 2.30pm on Saturday 16 July following her textile talk Quilts Created with Wool? Why not? All welcome! Tickets are free. Bookings essential:
- Julie Tasker: Textile Talk 1.30-2.30pm Saturday 16 July 2022
- Official Opening Australia 2.30-4pm Saturday 16 July 2022

AW8 Preview is a series of daily blog posts from 10 June to 15 July 2022 that will feature an artist and preview their artwork from the Ozquilt Network members’ exhibition Australia Wide Eight. The exhibition will premiere at Warwick Art Gallery from 14 July until 27 August 2022 and continue on tour until September 2024. Please direct any exhibition queries to AW8@ozquiltnetwork.org.au
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