My Story

Reflecting on my life story initially overwhelmed me with traumas and regrets but framing it as a woven image brought excitement and new insights. 

Using an old picture frame as my loom, ironically it previously framed an embroidery depicting a ‘perfect home.’

I selected warp threads reflecting my core, such as consistent variations in colour, texture, and strength.  The weft identified triggering memories, like learning how to swim by being thrown off a cliff in Malta. 

Despite intending to segment my weaving by years, I found myself navigating memories instead. Influences such as family, religion, and relocation to Australia emerged alongside peaceful moments amid challenges like death, cancer, and divorce. 

Stepping back after a week, I looked at my loom from a different perspective and had a revelation. Suddenly, I felt free! I realized that I had woven my story the way I had managed my life for the past 25 years. I maintained consistency in navigating one challenge or drama after another, all while looking after my two children.

I recognized the colour of the warp peeking through, which symbolized the suppression of my creative side.

Transitioning from Nursing to Creative Arts Therapy five years ago marked a pivotal shift, reminding me of the joy found in this new path as I wove colours randomly from this perspective. 

I hung My Story on an old paintbrush as a reminder that every colour is another memory and adventure waiting to be explored.