Connection is common thread in Redland Art Gallery exhibition

Redland Art Gallery, Capalaba welcomes an exhibition of textile art pieces this month, giving visitors an introduction to creating beauty out of fabric and thread.

Connected by Thread is an exhibition by SmartArts Creative Textile Group and celebrates the group’s 20th anniversary.

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said the exhibition demonstrated the importance of connection and collaboration in inspiring creativity.

“The intergenerational connections of the group are visible in the wide variety of techniques used to create these artworks,” Cr Williams said.

“To see the group’s numbers continuing to grow is testament to their willingness to share their knowledge and interest with younger generations, ensuring these artforms are not lost.”

SmartArts has grown from a group of three to about 20 local artists.

Connected by Thread showcases their talents and demonstrates the changing role of textiles in contemporary culture.

The 18 works, including two collaborative works, feature collage, 3D creations, embroidery, lace making and felting.

SmartArts member Marj Long said one of the collaborative works was a display of each member’s self-portrait.

“The portraits will be hung close together, all the same size but totally different applications,” Ms Long said.

“The other collaborative work is a grouping of more than 400 artist trading cards that form the number 20 for our anniversary.

“We hope both collaborative displays will be of interest to visitors.”

The exhibition will be open to the public during gallery hours from Saturday 15 July to Tuesday 5 September 2023.

A floor talk with members of the SmartArts Creative Textile Group, including a light lunch, will be held at noon on Thursday 20 July 2023.

Prior to the floor talk, an adult workshop will be held from 9am to noon where attendees will learn how to make a three-fold embroidered card.

Bookings are essential for the floor talk and workshop. Register online at artgallery.redland.qld.gov.au