Lichen Morphology continues Svenja’s fascination with, and exploration of, intriguing textural forms in nature. Svenja’s first exhibition titled Morphology (2009), focussed on ‘the fascinating surfaces and forms of fungi and lichen through contemporary textile practices.’ When travelling, Svenja photographs lichen and funghi. ‘Lichen Morphology’ is based on one of her favourite photographs of the ‘foliose’ lichen taken at Port Arthur, featuring the dark cupola shapes in the centre.

Adira of Aberlorne is an original concept bought to life from Polly’s imagination. Polly wanted to present a strong female character who was in keeping with her love of Sci-Fi, fantasy and the post-apocalyptic genres of film and literature. Her artist statement explains: ‘…drawing inspiration from a post-apocalyptic world, Adira of Aberlorne explores the female protagonist, embodying the spirit of a warrior.

For Empress at Forbidden City, Cynthia draws her inspiration from the impressive clothing worn by the ruling elite in China during the Tang Dynasty. Her focus of the piece is specifically Wu Zetian, the only female emperor in the history of China. The Empress’s life began as a concubine. When she married Gaozong and became empress consort, she was know to be the power behind the ruler. After he died she removed two of her sons from the throne and proclaimed herself Empress, a position she held until a year before her death at the age of 81.