White2 : the development of modernism in Australia (1850-1930) and the significant contribution made by women through domestic decoration and design

My research addresses the development of Modernism in Australia within the period c.1850 - 1930. The project focuses on the contribution made to this development by women through domestic decoration; and investigates the creative input of domestic needlework. The research examines historical issues which were paramount to the emergence of Modernism led by women; defines those issues as they relate to Australian women artists; and discusses this Australian version of Modernism against a backdrop of European Modernism. The visual component of my work explores through the medium of textile the irony of the relationship between yesterday's handmade needlework ethos and contemporary textile design and machine manufacturing processes.