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In Conversation with Phong Chi Lai | Line/Loop/Line
23 January, 2024
We spoke to artist Phong Chi Lai about his creative practice and the inspirations behind the work featured in our current exhibition Line/Loop/Line, on site at the Australian Tapestry Workshop until February 2024.
How did you get into making art?
My drive has always come from creating and making with my hands. I am a former shoe designer/maker who now creates patchwork and quilted works. I used to see myself more as a craftsperson, than an artist. However, over the years my world of craft and art strongly intersect.
Who or what inspires you to create?
Many things and people; nature, folk-craft, cultures, traditional techniques and processes, art, fashion and the artisan inspire me. From Bauhaus design to the quilters of Gee's Bend and all the unknown craftspeople.
What does your practice involve – what techniques do you use in your work?
Collecting - I collect native species, weeds and food waste to use as natural dyes. I forage for natural fibres in op-shops, flea markets, antique shops, garage sales, and my own wardrobe, taking inspiration from cultures where reclaiming and re-using is the norm. I have also collected antique ethnic textiles throughout my travels.
Colouring - I like to use natural dyes to colour cloth because I find the colours more nuanced. I experiment with various surface design techniques using natural dyes – block colour, shibori, eco-printing and over-dyeing.
Creating - I apply the traditional techniques of patchwork, quilting and hand embroidery to create my works. I create based on loose ideas or techniques I want to investigate, this approach allows for the chance encounter that arises in the handmade and natural process.
What does a day in the studio look like?
My favourite days in the studio are the days I know I have hand work to complete, it allows my mind to slow down and be present in the one process. This can last for days to weeks, depending on the work. Typically, I like to do computer based work in the morning, so the afternoons can be experimenting and making time.
How does your work in this exhibition relate to your practice and where it is heading?
The works in the exhibition relate to my practice in that it is centred around patchwork, and hand embroidery - my techniques of choice. I generally make works that are tactile and functional that can be viewed as art. For the LoopLineLoop exhibition, the works are stretched and framed, acting purely as art. This is something I would like to do more of in the future.
‘Line/Loop/Line’ is open to the public to view 10am-5pm, Thursday – Saturday until 2 Feb 2024.
As part of his upcoming residency at the ATW and as part of the PayPal Melbourne Fashion Festival’s Independent Programme, Phong Chi Lai and ATW Dye Lab Assistant will be delivering a natural dye workshop on March 9. Find out more below.