2024
Wool, sisal, clay
4.7m

A photograph of the 4.2m (14ft) flowering agare grown in, Burwood Godlee’s clay soil garden in Lewes was the inspiration for the tapestry installation. I chose the agave as a representation of Godlee as both man and plant are multi-faceted.

Burwood Godlee (1802-1882) was instrumental in developing the infrastructure for Lewes, East Sussex. He was heavily involved in the development of the rail network thereby linking the town to London and other parts of Sussex. At 20 he brought gas to Lewes and established the Lewes Gas Company remaining Chairman until death. Amongst the many hats he wore he was fundamental in improving public hygiene as Director of the Lewes Baths Association.

The agave plant is equally versatile: leaves used to create paper; sisal hemp and thatch; sap - soap; juices - tequila; thorns - needles; roots and flowers - food; syrup - alternative to sugar; stalk - music - didgeridoo.