Shades of a Country

Where we live, the places we spend time in, shape who we are. This collection of decorative textiles is a tribute to the places that mothered Gaia Azoumi Novelli, the countries she has called home, her heritage. Each textile uses distinct colours inspired by personal photographs, which represent the atmosphere of a particular country. Belgium's cosy, cloudy and rainy climate is depicted through warm greys and desaturated blue hues. The laser cut sharp edges of the textile remind Gaia of the straight-lined cityscape, landscape and roads. Italy has soft and deep blues. Niger has earthy reds coloured with Cola seed pigment. The tapestries feature patterns and textures reminiscent of West African scarification as well as Maori tattoos from New Zealand.