The Heavenly (In)Visibles

Artist Patsy Atkinson presents 'The Heavenly (In)Visibles', an exhibition investigating the intersection of textile art and the nature poetry of Mary Oliver. Located on Sherkin Island, the event serves as part of Atkinson's MA by Research at MTU Crawford College of Art and Design. The works focus on themes of inter-connection, attention, and transcendence, reflecting the poet's deep reverence for the natural world.

The creative process utilizes slow, nature-based methods including mono-printing and natural dyeing. Materials are sourced sustainably from the local hedgerows of Sherkin Island to capture the island's unique colors and stillness. This approach mirrors the meditative daily walks and creative processes used by Oliver to document the natural environment.

Notable pieces include wall-mounted scrolls printed on silk organza and a handmade meandering book. The book incorporates original works from thirty contemporary poets who responded to Atkinson’s research on spirituality and the environment. The exhibition aims to encourage respect for the natural world by highlighting its spiritual energy during a time of ecological concern.