My childhood, on an isolated farm in South Africa, was safe and secure. Two of my most cherished memories are of my grandmother cocheting, and us picking up weaver nests under the Eucalyptus tress near the cattle kraal. The nests used to fascinate me – unique, intricate little homes executed instinctively by birds according to an invisible blueprint. The interior of the nests is a snug haven for the baby birds, who rest secure in the knowledge that their parents will take care of every need.
As an artist, living in the city, the memories of my secure childhood home are amplified by the chaos of modern society. Corruption, poverty, violence, abuse – the list seems endless. Destruction of families leads to isolation, loneliness, and many other problems. Inevitably, it is the most vulnerable members of our families who become the victims. the Covid pandemic and the lockdowns have only contributed to the societal woes. For too many people, the word ‚nest‘ – which should conjure up images of protection and safety – is a terrifying place.
In the 30 artworks created for Matchbox, I have combined images of South African nests with embossed crocheted and woven doilies and placemats – some of whichwere created by my late grandmother. The embossed patterns of the doilies and place mats are always present, but only visible if activated by light. The nests have been interpreted in digital text, whcih for me, is a symbol of complexity and the design code underlying every natural system.
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