My project 'Sidereus Nuncius' (The Starry Messenger) depicts Jupiter and the 4 Galilean moons: Europa, Callisto, Ganymede & Io. I drew inspiration from the variety of colours and textures of the moons and used different textiles techniques to artistically represent this. My piece aims to highlight the beauty and complexity of our solar system. Jupiter has been constructed using a tufting gun to create a looped pile fabric. This has been carved into to add the varied textures of the planet’s surface. Saori style weaving creates the dominant cream ‘cloud’ band and couched crochet symbolises the ‘Great Red Spot’, the famous circular storm formation. Io has been made using hand-painted Aida embellished with hand-dyed yoyos, couching and hand embroidery. Callisto is made of sculpted felt using a blend of grey merino fibres. Dimension has been added using reverse applique, gold hand embroidery and beading. Europa has been created through layering of hand-marbled silk pieces embellished with couched cording and bullion knots inspired by the Greek God Jupiter’s beard and hair. Ganymede is a silvery grey and black silk velvet coloured with alcohol inks. Volcano motifs have been screen printed to add the additional textures and techniques of flocking, foiling and devore. The most significant functional aspect of my design is the picture wire that allows each artwork to be hung on the wall independently of the other. Each piece is individually mounted so the arrangement of the moons can be changed depending on personal preference. Throughout the design and construction process of my MTP I learnt valuable skills including independent learning, problem solving and experimentation skills. The independent nature of my project allowed me to develop important problem-solving skills which allowed me a sense of satisfaction and achievement when I finally reached a solution. The most enjoyable part of the construction of my project was being able to learn and experiment with a variety of different techniques to create the desired textual effect. The use of multiple techniques throughout my project was my greatest challenge as it required lots of research, practice and in cases, trial and error, to ensure that my project was cohesive and completed to a high standard. Overall, the construction of my MTP was valuable, rewarding yet challenging experience that allowed me to experiment and be creative. The countless hours spent sewing and felting with my friends is one that I will never forget.
