Rachael Speirs

Within my work I use scrap fabric, which I cut, layer and paint with gouache to create textural and narrative pieces. Embroidery and paper is added. The result is a collage-like piece that creates a visual metaphor, connecting current events and human experiences. The use of textiles is intrinsic to my work. It allows me to connect with the viewer, as it appeals to their sense of nostalgia; it connects them to something that is in all our histories -- the handiwork, embroidery, quilts and other objects our grandmothers and great grandmothers made that were, in essence, art.
My artwork has a strong humanitarian and narrative element. This ties into the storytelling aspect of the work. The work is inspired by vintage children’s book illustration and this, in combination with the traditional textile handicraft, references the haunting experience of sifting through our memories — poignant and evocative; difficult to ignore or forget.

Self-Taught. Background in Social Work.

Selected Shows and Exhibitions:
2021
Toronto Outdoor Art Fair (Online) Toronto
The Artist Project (Online) Toronto
Art Gallery Hamilton Annual Show (Online), Hamilton
Blue Crow Gallery Annual Group Show, Toronto

2020
Toronto Outdoor Art Fair (Online), Toronto
Riverdale Art Walk (Online), Toronto
Art Gallery of Hamilton Annual Show (Online), Hamilton
The Artist Project, Better Living Centre, Toronto

2019
Oakville Art in The Park, Oakville
Riverdale Art Walk, Toronto
The Textile Show, Gerrard Art Space, Toronto
2017
Solo Exhibition, Meet Your Maker Gallery, Stratford.

2015
Queen West Art Crawl, Toronto
Oakville Art In the Park, Oakville
Toronto Art Walk, Toronto
Riverdale Art Walk, Toronto

2014
Cabbagetown Show and Sale, Toronto
Toronto Outdoor Art Exhibition, Toronto

2013
Come Up To My Room 2013, Gladstone Hotel, Toronto

2012
Toronto Outdoor Art Exhibition, Toronto
Cabbagetown Show and Sale, Toronto
Queen West Art Crawl, Toronto
Illuminated Bones, Solo Exhibit, Love of Mine, Toronto

2011
Hard Twist, Gladstone Hotel, Toronto
Solo Exhibit, Arts on Queen, Toronto
Queen West Art Crawl, Toronto
'Fabricate' Group Show, Meredith Keith Gallery, Toronto
C...