Niki McDonald

'Amending Traditions' is the body of work that Niki McDonald has created for Untitled. 2020 it pays respect to the tradition of needlepoint tapestry honouring its process and giving consideration to its subject matter.

Art reflects society and in the 19^th Century tapestry affirmed rigidity and modesty. The role of the amended tapestry is to break the customary stereotypes by sassing up the traditional subject matter. Stitching and mending recontextualises and allows for autonomy and sustained self-expression.

Niki McDonald uses the tools and techniques of domesticity for urban cheek and sustained self-expression. She has explored all things textiles and has a Bachelor of Creative Arts with a major in Textiles. Niki's needlepoint tapestries capture urban faces, spaces and attitudes and the wool, paint and stitches make the ephemeral permanent.

Traditional tapestries are stitched and darned with contemporary urban themes and incorporating humour to reflect contrast.  Niki McDonald employs sub-culture slang and lyrics from popular songs to prompt the viewer to complete the line and relive a moment in time. By inviting the audience to connect their own experience with that of the subject in the tapestry Niki hopes to ignite impact.

Birds represent freedom, they have a higher perspective and a big picture view. In the series ‘Amending Traditions’ the bird provides an insight into how the subject is feeling and the challenges they are facing.

Niki McDonald CV