Artists statement

During lockdown, Eltham community Facebook members answered my request for sprigs from their gardens; leaving the clippings on their doorsteps for me to collect, digitally photograph, Photoshop, print onto canvas, and embroider. The craft of embroidery is a traditional platform for women’s storytelling, but when combined with contemporary technology, expresses my hope of utilising lessons of community spirit from the pandemic and embracing that in the future, so we can combat coming challenges with unity.

DEBRA BILLSON is an award-winning book designer and mixed-media artist who lives and works on Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Country. With a long-held interest in fabric and fibres, Billson explores traditional women’s roles and crafts by combining digital techniques with pre-computer skills, often utilising symmetry and repetition.