About

Textile artist and illustrator Carmel McSherry

Curious industries was established in 2004 as a platform for my textile art. Created from scraps saved from generations of sewing projects, op shop finds, generous friends, swapping work for fabric, fabric sample books etc. I feel that I am giving a new life to what is often perceived as useless, turning it into quality, quirky and interesting pieces. They are all hand made here in New Zealand by myself.

I produce a range of fine art and textile art, along with crafts for children. (Such as trixies puppies and show pony’s) I enjoy freehand stitching imaginative images onto satchels that I construct on my old industrial singer sewing machine.

All my works are individuals (in opposition to the culture of sweatshops) and lots are made from up-cycling such as my rag rugs. All dollies have their own individual personalities lovingly stitched in as a reaction against the presence of generic mass produced plastic dolls in our popular culture.

Commissions are most welcome in any size or style you desire (Let me make you a portrait doll of or for a loved one).

My painting is in a scratchy linear style mostly using pen, ink and acrylic. It is very illustrative and imaginative with a surrealist feel. My works often convey themes of humanity’s fragility and what if scenarios with a dream like fairytale feel.

Tertiary Qualifications

2003 & 2004 Diploma of fashion design

1996-1998 Bachelor of arts (majored in Art history)

Shown in eleven group exhibitions from 2000 to 2011 and one solo exhibition.