Nora West

Auckland, New Zealand/Aotearoa

Nora West is an activist trained in creative embroidery and fabric printing.  Since moving to New Zealand in 1982 she has specialised in making banners and quilts in partnership with community groups.  She was instrumental in organizing the exhibit in Auckland.   This piece is a sampler of ideas, images and techniques put together over a number of years.

The Michelangelo's David contemplates the approaching arrows with fortitude while the storm clouds gather behind him. The zebra cubes bear the I Ching symbols for signs of change. The hearts are, as ever, unstable and elusive. The eye and hand represent observation and practice. The words were embroidered during a long hui for the Community Arts Network on the marae at Raglan. The word CHANGE is depicted with great elaboration because it is the stuff of life itself. It is the next big wave; we often fear it, but are best to anticipate it with hope and resolve, wisdom and flexibility; for who knows what the future will bring?