Please click on each image to see the full artwork.
East of Eden, 2019, appliqued and hand stitched textile
East Of Eden II, 2019, appliqued and hand stitched textile
Aran Illingworth’s work focuses on the depiction of the human figure, addressing the artist’s socio-political concerns. Illingworth’s pieces are all hand stitched; her technique mimics the layered brush marks of a painting, making her works appear realistic from a distance and allowing the artist to create the illusion of depth, volume and form.
East of Eden focuses on the fragility of homeless men and women. It seeks to challenge the viewer, forcing them to come face to face with the deprivation we see so often in our urban environments. It does so without blame, pushing to the forefront both the beauty and the delicate nature of humanity.
Aran Illingworth
Aran Illingworth transitioned to textiles after working as a trained nurse, predominantly in psychiatry; completing a degree in textiles at the University of Hertfordshire.
Illingworth started off her journey creating images of women and children, focussing on issues such as poverty. Her work is a visual narrative, which is intended to convey a certain emotion, and which focuses on subjects carrying a specific message and meaning. Artists such as Kathe Kollwitz have influenced her work.
Illingworth has exhibited her work both in the UK and internationally, she has had several solo exhibitions.
Instagram: @aranillingworth
Hertfordshire Open 2020
This artwork was selected for the first Hertfordshire Open Exhibition. The exhibition online galleries are hosted between www.uharts.co.uk and www.stalbansmuseums.org.uk and will be launched in stages throughout April 2020.
Over 180 artists with links to Hertfordshire submitted their work to be part of the inaugural exhibition. Chosen by an independent panel of judges, the exhibition features 80 stunning works by the 50 selected artists, creating an exciting mix of work by established artists alongside emerging talent and first-time exhibitors.
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