'Stenosis' Exhibition

In 2020, during the peak of the pandemic, I was diagnosed with a rare disease known as Idiopathic Subglottic Stenosis. This condition causes the narrowing and constriction of my airway due to tissue growth in the trachea. Consequently, my airway steadily closes over which means a lifetime of regular surgeries to maintain my ability to breathe. Once diagnosed, I spent my days in bed recovering from the symptoms of my disease. Here I found solace in the simple craft of crochet. The steady, rhythmic and mindful movement of the crochet hook, coupled with the soft reassurance of yarn and blanket making, crochet became a soothing balm on days when there seemed little room for anything beyond existence and acceptance. In the years following as I reemerged (along with the rest of the world), I reflected on the significance of allowing myself this crafty respite and naturally gravitated towards channelling this into a body of work. Is this a pity party? No! This freeform sculptural technique is an attempt to break down the tensions and challenges caused within me by the twisting constricting tissue growth, using soft and yet strong everyday fabrics, symbolic of comfort and care. In creating this body of work I upcycled domestic materials such as sheets, pyjamas, and towels. In a joyous nod to my love of pinks I used these to convey self-love, compassion, and warmth. Gold embodies optimism, resilience, and forward momentum – a divine element amidst the simplicity of the modest materials and a nod to the strength in all of us and how we all get through it in the end.