Beth Walsh’s work is based on direct experience and sensory response, using lace as a conduit rather than an end in itself. Some works are inspired by text or local environment, others by works of artists of the past, but all are a personal interpretation of a source. Lace has always juxtaposed structure and line with space. Beth’s work examines and challenges traditional lacemaking through distortion or reversal of pattern, stitch, colour and scale, often combined with other media. Absence as well as presence is central, linking into concerns with the placing of her lace within a sense of time.
Her recent work includes large-scale pieces designed to be exhibited outside, subjected to the elements, and small, intimate works to be held and enjoyed, including exploring the concept of artists’ books.