Julia Cottle | Elevated Ground
Julia Cottle
Elevated Ground
Edge Gallery, May 6 - 28, 2022
The exhibit, Elevated Ground, explores the interplay of art and science through the practice of observation and shifting perspective. This collection is a study of lichen – a ubiquitous and essential part of our Northern landscapes. Throughout Elevated Ground you will find three interwoven series: Examination of Form; Change in Perspective; and Art as Exploration.
Examination of Form:
Leveraging observational techniques to distinguish one lichen species from another, the lichens become recognizable in their new textile form. This practice leverages scientific descriptions of lichen to enable conversations and learnings with nature through the practice of art.
Change in Perspective:
This work is an effort to change the perspective of our observations. Using rug hooking techniques to emulate the lichen found on trails regularly travelled, what once was below our feet (both the lichen and the rug) is elevated to be observed from a new angle. Providing an opportunity to explore and change our perspective.
Art as Exploration:
Completed as part of the 2021 Tombstone Artist Residency, this series emulates 15 photos taken by iNaturalist[1] users in Yukon’s Tombstone Territorial Park. This interplay provides an opportunity to explore the questions often asked through scientific investigation – ‘what’, ‘who’, and ‘where’ – but also aims for us to explore the ‘why’ through the interaction with art. This is an intentional practice of a single observation contributing to both science and art.
[1] iNaturalist is a popular nature app that helps you identify the plants and animals you photograph. Your photograph may then also be shared with scientist and researches and can contribute to science. Learn more about iNaturalist here: https://www.inaturalist.org/
JULIA COTTLE
As a textile artist, I have learned techniques from a wide community of artists and makers. From tutorials, lessons, gallery showings and conversations, I pull inspiration from the talent and devotion from those that take the time to share and teach.
Primarily using the punch needle, a rug hooking technique, to create small and large tapestries, I attempt to capture small wonders found in nature. If you look closely you will also see some felting, embroidery, crochet, and weaving incorporated into some of the pieces.
My inspiration comes mainly from spending time on trails where I live as a settler on the traditional and contemporary territories of the Kwanlin Dün First Nation and the Ta’an Kwäch’än Council.
Instagram: @julescots
Past Exhibitions
