Lyndall Phelps

Science of Common Life continued my interest in merging the scientific, which was traditionally seen as a male dominated profession, with women’s creative pursuits in the domestic environment. Part laboratory, part sewing room, the installation became a place of surprising experimentation and transformation. Exquisitely crafted, domestic scale objects made from embroidery thread, beads, ribbons, lace and fabric playfully interacted with laboratory glass flasks and beakers, microscope slides, funnels and watch glasses. The scale and arrangement of each tableau suggested a science experiment in motion.

Glass is a recurring material within my practice, especially scientific glass, of which I am an avid collector. So too is the investigation of collections, both historical and contemporary. Whilst researching the National Art Glass Collection I was drawn to three artists whose work embraced laboratory glass forms: Andrew Lavery, Nick Mount and Denise Sullivan. These works were strategically placed within Science of Common Life, to enhance the underlying narratives within the installation.