In a residency run by Craft ACT, ACT Parks and Conservation Service, and the National Library of Australia (NLA), textile artist Julie Ryder drew inspiration from original, hand-embroidered world maps. The maps were made by women in the 18th and 19th centuries as a way to learn both geography and sewing skills. Traces spoke to Ryder about her research into these fascinating historical objects, and how they informed her art.
Traces: Julie, tell us a little about yourself and your art practice.
Julie Ryder (JR): I am a textile designer who uses screen-printing, stitching, natural dyes and organic materials to make work for exhibition. Originally trained in science, I retrained as a textile designer in 1990, so my arts practice combines science with art, and draws inspiration from research undertaken during arts residencies.
I am interested in the power of objects to tell hidden stories about people and
