The Messengers

Birds have often been seen as messengers, both literal and symbolic. The ancient Romans divined the future in their flight paths; the Holy Spirit descended on Christ in the form of a dove.

And this body of work came out of a time when I was wrestling with heavy questions about the future, and searching for guidance - for a sign from above.

I looked for a sign - but what did I see? These tapestries are enigmatic heralds, at best. Each one is woven in a simple colour palette of linen and wool in contrasting textures. The thick cotton warp that undergirds each piece has rendered my weaving blocky and rough-hewn in some places, delicate and refined in others.

In my research for this collection, I drew inspiration from the motifs of Scandinavian and Polish folk textiles, from the estuaries near my home in Suffolk, and the myth-laden mountains of North England and Wales. Most of all, I challenged myself to do more with less, and to use small spaces to convey a great distance.

Each tapestry has been designed the same way, with cardboard cut outs arranged and drawn around onto the warp. The same shape is therefore woven differently each time, shifting subtly from tapestry to tapestry, like a landscape changing between when you first look, and then look again.

Each piece is mounted and framed in a hand-stained box frame without glass. Alternative framing is available upon request and under consultation with the artist.

Click on the images below to view dimensions and prices, and contact info@christabelbalfour.com to enquire about purchasing and shipping costs

The Moon Is A Gift In The Palm Of My Hand

But The Moon Slipped Away Through My Fingers

Here I Am, Counting The Moon And The Planets

I Am Looking For A Sign In The Soft River Bed