Introduction

Tamworth, a city with a rich history in textile arts, is set to commemorate its heritage with the opening of the 5th Tamworth Textile Triennial at the Tamworth Regional Gallery. Titled “Residue + Response,” this exhibition showcases 25 captivating artworks from artists across Australia, all delving into the theme of the profound connection between our past histories and future aspirations. The triennial, curated by Dr. Carol McGregor, pays homage to Tamworth’s status as a hub of excellence in fiber art and highlights the diverse voices and cultural perspectives embedded in the works of these talented artists.

Tamworth: The Hub of Fiber Art Excellence

Tamworth’s reputation as the home of fiber art excellence finds further validation in the 2023 triennial. The selection of artists and their works reflects a culmination of diversity in artistic expression, cultural influence, and creative ideas. Bridget Guthrie, the Director of Tamworth Regional Gallery, emphasises that this diversity contributes to the exhibition’s unique and captivating character.

“Residue + Response” Curatorial Approach

Dr. Carol McGregor, the curator of “Residue + Response,” carefully orchestrates a collection that explores the profound interplay between past events and the values we hold today. One distinctive feature of this year’s triennial was the collaborative artist exchange program, fostering strong relationships among the participating artists. Through this exchange, expertise, knowledge, and experiences were shared in preparation for the exhibition, enriching the depth and scope of the artworks on display.

Commemorating the 50th Anniversary of the National Fibre Art Collection

The year 2023 marks a significant milestone—the 50th anniversary of the National Fibre Art Collection, established in Tamworth in 1973 as an initiative of the Tamworth Arts and Crafts Society. Local textile advocates, including Sybil Orr, Ruth Blakely, and Fran West, played pioneering roles in the field at a time when art practices were often constrained by long-entrenched social traditions and gender inequality. Their creative excellence paved the way for the exhibition’s evolution into the nationally significant curated showcase it is today. In this year’s triennial, it’s crucial for the Tamworth community to acknowledge and celebrate their invaluable contributions to the world of textile art.

Exhibition Details and Tour

The official opening of “Residue + Response: 5th Tamworth Textile Triennial” will take place at Tamworth Regional Gallery on Saturday, September 9th, starting at 6 pm. The exhibition will remain open to the public until February 11, 2024, offering visitors ample time to immerse themselves in the world of textile art.

Following its display in Tamworth, the exhibition embarks on a national tour, spreading its artistic message across the country. Destinations on the tour include Adelaide, Broken Hill, Mildura, Wagga Wagga, Manly, Port Macquarie, Grafton, and Ipswich.

Acknowledgments and Funding

The realization of “Residue + Response: 5th Tamworth Textile Triennial” has been made possible through the generous funding from the NSW Government, as well as the Australian Government’s support through the Visions of Australia and Regional Arts Fund programs. These contributions underscore the importance of nurturing and celebrating Australia’s vibrant and diverse artistic heritage.

The 5th Tamworth Textile Triennial, “Residue + Response,” promises to be a journey through the intricate landscape of Australia’s textile arts, paying homage to Tamworth’s historical significance while exploring the profound connections between our past and our dreams for the future. It is a celebration of artistic diversity and the enduring legacy of those who have paved the way for contemporary textile artists.

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