Anzara Clark

Anzara Clark is a Melbourne textile and paper artist that specialises in ‘wearable art and garment based sculptural forms.’

She has dressed Stephanie this month with one of these garments, called “when the worlds collide.”

Having described it as a item that “is an expression of the contrasts and tensions between nature and culture. The materials and processes used in the garment are expressions of these. The narrative of the garment is not just about the environment and the impact of culture on the natural world, but also reflects on human nature and the influence of culture in supporting or obstructing the nature of individuals.

“As such it has particular relevance for conversations about LGBTQIA acceptance within the mainstream heterosexual culture that shapes institutions and cultural practices. The garment demonstrates that there can be a harmonious meeting of nature and culture and culture is at its most vibrant when it celebrates and protects natures that sustain it.”

We chose “When the worlds collide” to be worn by Stephanie for the end of Midsumma. A festival that is all about celebrating the diversity and cultures of the LGBTIQ+ community.

Some local writers and poets have written about this item and we wished to share one of their poems, written by Margaret Cartwright, that is from the perspective of a transgender person.

We hope you enjoy reading it, and come check out the gorgeous garment by Anzara Clark that is in our window for another week.

Anzara Clark can be contacted via her website –  http://anzaraclark.com/2015/06/09/artist-statement/

The Woman Who Wore That Dress by Margaret Cartwright.

Seductive, shimmering as if alive,

embracing cultures past and present.

Come, put me on and you will see

I have the power to set you free

 

Soft silk and wool in hues of dusking day; fabrication of wisdom from long ago.

Chain, and discs forged by human hands

shine like ancient suns in far off lands.

 

I am nature, I am your future.

Come, put me on, you know you must

For I can set you free

From the man you used to be.

 

I slide past shoulders, hips, thighs;

I envelope you in ancient sensory.

Goodbye Paul, you are past

Hello Paula, freed at last