Bobby Tarlton - Meliorism
acrylic paint, screen printing ink, cotton, bamboo
60 x 60cm
$60
(noun) - my belief that I can contribute positive change to world through my art, words and actions; the belief that the world can be made better through human contribution
About the artist
Hi, my name is Bobby Tarlton
It has been a difficult process to get to this exhibition. I would like to thank my Art Teacher, Terri Horner, for alI the wonderful support that she has given me, without her support I would not be here. Also, Wesley Arts for all the support I have received through this Art Program. Annette Middleton has also been a great influence and help.
I love words, I love their texture, the aftertaste of a well pronounced word, the feel of them in the air and, of course their meaning. The words I have chosen for this exhibit give my art function and durability. Each word imparts a visceral feeling and brings my art to life. My other great love is textiles, fabric, and yarn, whether it is a natural fibre or a synthetic fibre.
My days are mostly spent crocheting, but I also love hand sewing, embroidery, tapestry and knitting. (I would love to do more machine sewing but unfortunately for that I need a machine like my old Singer, which I could operate with my hands.) I enjoy the feeling of the medium that I am using, be it cotton thread, or rough hemp rope, the softest silk, or a harsh nylon.
I have a Progressive Neurological disease, Multiple Sclerosis, which has caused some damage to my right hand, especially the dexterity and ability to completely straighten and control my fingers. Both my hands have a significant alteration in their ability for sensation awareness, and proprioception has gone (that is the ability to know what I'm doing, touching or feeling without looking). I am permanently in a wheelchair, although every day I try to get on my feet to dress and undress and go for a short walk (of course with splints and a walker).
For this small contribution, my fingers felt the fabric and it’s as though magic happened, I began to see ideas, which were realised with a particular word and motion. I truly hope you enjoy my small contribution as much as I have enjoyed making it for you.