Visions of the Past by © Mark Lomax
For some it is the means of expressing very personal themes and ideas. For others it is the chance to follow in a rich social tradition that sees groups of people and communities coming together in fruitful collaboration. For Mark Lomax the quilt is both of these. The significance of the quilt in its role as a social activity, its means of construction and its global significance is important. It is a clearly identifiable object with a strong history, multiple associations and its own symbols and language. The quilt is the perfect vehicle for exploring Mark’s interests in memory, personal and social identity, history and culture.
My Grandmother’s Garden by Mark Lomax.
However, Mark creates his quilts from materials more commonly used in the building trade. Cement, filler, wood,wire and metal sheeting are combined with paint and recycled textiles to produce the rich surfaces and intricate textures that make up his finished pieces.
Mark explains, “It was while researching memory failure in Alzheimer’s and Dementia sufferers that I started to look at common processing and retrieval issues and memory triggers. After working through a series of possible categories I focussed on memories based on domestic situations and everyday life. This involved the use of objects that we most associate with the home and family living. Included in this category are; furniture, ceramics, tableware, and more importantly, textiles. The colours and patterns used in curtains, soft furnishings, rugs, carpets, quilts and clothing are common to all of us. By utilising familiar elements that are associated with domestic objects it is possible to trigger or evoke memories. Like the readymade, the quilt with it’s appropriated past and re-purposed materials, has a built in history by association.”
11 February – 15 April 2023
Main Art Gallery
