Cutting thread, collecting fragments, leftover pieces, questions that remain, inspired this meditation. It is to do with the art making process, arising in the final stages of the poem ‘Prayer’, prior to its publication. Thirty six poetry pamphlets form this hand-sewn limited edition, resulting in seventy two tail-ends of thread. These are made into a sequence of placed temporary works, photographed individually, and in grids. I tied the fragments to each other, using seventy two knots (see Franciscan Seraphic Rosary and Eastern prayer rope); this endearing soft-sculptural object, its juxtaposition to the poem, invites contemplation…
The music for the film is based on the poet’s response to a bird singing in the garden, while making the work. It is recorded on Celtic bouzouki…
With special thanks to artistic director Susan Bennetta for her critique, wise words and suggestions. This hand-sewn pamphlet is currently available directly from our small press http://www.artistspress.co.uk. Here’s the link to the film, thank you so much for reading its back-story, with all good times…
philip bennetta 