Tammy Kanat
Tammy Kanat is a weaving artist whose work looks just at home in the National Gallery of Victoria as it does in her studio.
Words: Emma-Kate Wilson
Wilderness, 2017. Wool, linen, silk and fibres on a copper frame. Photo - Andrew Richey.
Photo - Emily Weaving.
Flowing 2018. Wool, linen, silk and fibres on a copper frame. Photo - Emily Weaving.
Colour is a big part of Melbourne-based weaver Tammy Kanat’s practice, a skill learnt in her former days as a jewellery designer picking out colourful precious stones. “It has been interesting transitioning from gems to fibre colours, but I have continued to be free with my colour choices in my textiles,” Tammy reflects. These colours evolve throughout the weaving process, along with textures and patterns.
Her monumental sculptures recently caught the eye of the National Gallery of Victoria who added four artworks to their collection. And Tammy’s collaboration with Mecca to design the packaging reveals the diversity of her practice. Back in the studio, the floors are covered with all different shades of wool; the walls are lined with a multitude of experiments. The textural effect of layering yarn invites the viewer to take a meditative moment, pondering how the patterns develop.
“Not knowing the end of the story keeps me curious and motivated. I like the mystery and journey of creating each unique piece,” shares Tammy Kanat. Photo - Emily Weaving.
Tammy does her own little bits of protecting the environment — and encourages you to consider it visually— sourcing her materials from premium wool producers who pass on their excess stock. “It is a great outcome as it allows the wool to be repurposed instead of ending up in landfill,” she thoughtfully reflects.
The artist draws inspiration from nature, fashion, architecture, objects and other creatives; such as artists Sheila Hicks, Josef Albers, James Turrell, Gunta Stolzl and Frank Stella — all who use colour and materiality In abstracted ways. “I am constantly observing my surroundings," she adds — a recent trip to Japan turned out to be a great source of new ideas. "The art and culture are amazing,” Tammy shares as she remembers back. “The Japanese artistry and skills are so inspiring.”
“I often refer to my work, and it’s process like reading the chapters in a novel and not knowing what happens at the end until I finish the book.”
Amongst the nature of Japan, the artist found creativity sources with the alluring museums submerged in the ground or contained within their private islands. These places provided reflections on Tammy's practice, such as the Hakone Open-Air Museum, Naoshima Art Island, and Teshima Art Museum. “The temples, the walks, the buildings, the experience was so extraordinary and deeply memorable,” she adds.
Photo - Andrew Richey.
“I never know what my artworks exact shape, colour palette or end result will be until the piece is completed,” shares Tammy Kanat. Photo - Emily Weaving.
Photo - Emily Weaving.
“Not knowing the end of the story keeps me curious and motivated. I like the mystery and journey of creating each unique piece.”
This temporal experience feeds back into Tammy's work. For example, Green Lake, 2019, which was inspired by Lake Eildon with its mix of teal blues and greens. "The lake is forever changing, which is why I find it so mesmerising and calming," she muses. It's not hard to see why this incredible piece of nature inspires her when you realise her studio overlooks the stunning waterscape.
From the art museums housed within nature to the opal-like weaved sculptures, something rings throughout. In Tammy's studio the works begin an organic and intuitive configuration. The artworks reflect an active participation when in motion, but once completed, takes a form that appears as though it was carved out of rock. In a way, this is what Tammy does. She chips away at the works until they are completed; their final shape even surprising the designer herself.
“I enjoy getting out of my comfort zone and pushing the boundaries and creating new concepts; In 2020, I hope to explore and experiment with textile sculptures and 3D art pieces,” says Tammy Kanat. Photo - Emily Weaving.