The World Awaits #TimesUp Collage

Fear of, or caused by sexual assault causes restrictions and confinements in lifestyle and thought. These borders are internalized, held within the model, stitched in text. The #MeToo and #TimesUp movements are exciting bridges, for the first time ever women are being heard and believed. The onus is starting to be on men to change—and not on women to curtail their lifestyle, to dress conservatively, to not provoke. Stitched into the background are words of empowerment and hope. This quilt can be hung either way up. The model in bridge pose or flying through the sky, free. The words inside the model's body include: I wish I was braver, I wear my past like a scar that I'm not sure how much to cover, I never feel completely safe, I'm careful not to be too opinionated, I'm careful to never go out by myself alone at night, I'm afraid to be home alone after dark, I'm careful not to dress provocatively, I'm taking it back. Within the background quilting are the words: Nevertheless she persisted, me too, time's up, raise your voice, rise above, equality, speak up, teach men not to rape, understanding, resist. This wall art is made from quilted silk with a wool poly batting inner and cotton backing. The photo is an original taken for this piece and printed via giclée print directly onto the quilt. Stitching has been done with ultra fine 100wt (the finest thread you can buy) and 80wt threads. This piece has was juried into the "Borders and Bridges" themed AQC exhibition in 2018 which showed at the Royal Exhibition Buildings in Carlton Australia and then toured throughout Australia and New Zealand and won Judges Choice. This piece currently needs to fulfil touring commitments as it is a finalist in the World Quilt Competition but will be for sale at the end of that tour.