For Australian Design Centre’s (ADC) 60th anniversary celebration of Australian designers and makers, and in partnership with Regional Arts NSW, ADC is presenting a series of installations by regional artists in Object Space, the 24/7 window gallery on William Street, Sydney from August to December 2024.
The second to be featured in this series is Port Macquarie artist Leah Doeland showing her amazing Covid Couture jackets from 3 October to 13 November 2024 as part of Sydney Craft Week, ADC’s popular annual event from 11-20 October 2024.
Destined For Landfill – Covid Couture
Jackets handcrafted from household waste
During the Covid pandemic lockdowns, Leah was unable to source her normal art practice supplies and out of her innate need to create, her series of “Covid Couture” jackets was born. Each jacket in the collection was created from the same pattern with different “textiles”, and using a variety of techniques such as patchwork, embroidery, sashiko, crochet, hand sewing and machine sewing.
As a collection, the jackets are vibrant and thought-provoking. Leah’s aim is to first capture her audience’s attention with the colour and texture of each piece, then spark their curiosity as they lean in to discover the materials. She hopes the viewer will take a moment to ponder ways in which they could make changes towards a more sustainable lifestyle, including the art of fixing and mending, repurposing and reusing.
About the artist
Leah Doeland is a self-taught artist from Port Macquarie known for her vibrant, multi-faceted creations. With her passion and eye for colour and texture, and a keen sense of humour, Leah explores unconventional mediums to craft thought-provoking art. Her compositions invite viewers to see the world through fresh eyes, with objects that captivate and spark curiosity. Leah’s work is held in collections in Australia and overseas, and includes two recent public art installations.
Follow Leah on Instagram
Images:
1. Chip Packets and Packing Tape – June 2020.
2. Used Face Masks – March 2022
3. Orange and Onion Mesh Bags – April 2022