Robyn Norris completed a bachelor of Education in 1985. She has participated in exhibitions and galleries for the last 7 years. and has won several prizes such as the best in show at the Royal Melbourne and the Orbost show. Robyn has also worked as a tutor and demonstrated a variety of basketry skills around Victoria. “My work is inspired by a lifelong love of nature. The organic shapes I create are made with plant fibres that are gathered. My passion for the bush is reflected in the colours and textures I work with.” Meg Douglas[ 1989] sums up the use of the senses in basketry. ‘Fibre Basketry of ancient origin and ongoing fascination is a craft where all human senses are employed. Natural materials such as leaf, root and stem are seen, spotted and hunted[sight]. It is then gathered. The crispness, roughness and sleekness are appreciated [touch]. If the plants have nuts, fruit and berries it is tasted. The rustle squeak and crackle of the action of gathering of the fibres is apparent [hearing]. As the fibres dry the aroma changes and as they are worked when rehydrated the richness of flavour revives[scent]’ Robyn’s work includes a range of sculptural, non-functional baskets, light shades and wall pieces made with willow, grapevine, eucalyptus caesia, jacaranda, Alexander palm inflorescence. Galleries that have featured her work include: Quadrant gallery Kew Maranoa Native Gardens Balwyn Herring Island on the Yarra Bulin Bulin Gallery Bulleen Collingwood Gallery Geelong fibre forum Flinders Gallery Giddy Bullfrog Redhill Federation Square Fracture Gallery Lost Trades Fair Basket makers of Victoria |
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