ATW is deeply saddened by the passing of Chris Cochius, master weaver, writer and artist. Across an extraordinary 43-year career at ATW, Chris contributed to more than 73 tapestries.

Chris joined ATW in 1983 after studying Environmental Design and Interior Design in Adelaide. From 1986 to 1987, Chris expanded her experience internationally, joining the West Dean Tapestry Studio in the UK to weave a tapestry designed by Henry Moore. Throughout her career at ATW, Chris was known for her exceptional technical skill and her ability to translate artists' visions into the medium of tapestry.

As a master weaver, she led the creation of many significant commissions, collaborating with leading Australian and international artists including Janet Laurence, Jon Cattapan, John Wolseley, Yvonne Audette, Brook Andrew, Imants Tillers, Guan Wei and Maree Clarke.

She also played a key role in many landmark projects, including Gordian Knot by Keith Tyson, Perspectives on a Flat Surface by John Wardle Architects and Morning Star by Lyndell Brown and Charles Green for the Sir John Monash Centre in France. Across more than four decades, Chris contributed to tapestries now held in significant collections, public institutions and galleries nationally and internationally, offering lasting evidence of her remarkable skill. Chris leaves behind an inspiring body of work and a legacy woven into the history of ATW.

While Chris's artistic achievements were considerable, she will also be remembered for the contribution she made to the life of ATW over many years. Generous with her time and spirit, she shared her knowledge freely and enriched the practice of those around her. In the day-to-day life of the Workshop, we will miss her presence, her sharp wit, her extensive knowledge at the loom and, most of all, her laugh. She will be greatly missed, and we extend our deepest condolences and love to Chris's family, Fergus, Caitlin and Finn.

In honour of Chris's remarkable legacy as a master weaver, we’re proud to announce the naming of a new award as part of the Kate Derum and Irene Davies Awards. The Chris Cochius Innovation Award is a new prize, that honours Chris's lifelong commitment to innovation, generosity and excellence in contemporary textile practice. The new cash prize is one of the suite of awards for this year’s competition.