Arras

This work explores the concept of concealment and hidden space using layers, flaps and openings.
 
I call these hanging objects “arras”. The literal definition of an arras is a wall hanging or tapestry, named after the French town known for making fine tapestries. The word “arras” also refers to the idea of concealment. Historically, an arras was often hung from the wall at such a distance that a person could easily pass between the wall and the tapestry and in this way an arras worked as a material partition or screen that people could hide behind.  Shakespeare’s plays are filled with references to people concealing themselves behind an arras. I am interested in making work that resists revealing everything. There is a sense that not everything can be seen.