Keywords: crochet, fremantle, knitting, priera russell, western australia, wool, cotton, dress

Holier Than Thou

Priera Russell

Dimensions

1800 x 1000 mm

Materials

Dress: knitted and crocheted wool and cotton

Artist statement

‘My work draws on my feminist response to the diversity of lacework used in religion, including clothing, architecture, screens and furnishings. The concept ‘holier than thou’ draws, in particular, on the use of lace as a screen for women in patriarchal religious systems and interrogates the theme through its counterpoint. Inspiration is taken from a range of sources — from the lacework of burkha eye-slits to the Catholic mantilla, from the marble lace of harem screens to the confessional grill.

My multicultural background and Australian upbringing provide me with a creative nature comfortable with questioning traditions and investigating cultural relationships. My work exalts the femininity and sexuality of woman. It argues against forced coverage, while at the same time using the homely materials and techniques of wool, cotton, knitting and crocheting. Materials and techniques used for common daywear and modest pursuits are transformed into couture evening wear.’