Ann Sutton (British 1935-) Double Knots Colour I, 2020 signed, titled and dated in pencil (to reverse), coloured threads (40.5cm x 46cm (15 7/8in x 18 1/8in)) Provenance The Collection of Ann Sutton O.B.E. Ann Sutton pushes the boundaries of what can be ‘woven’ with endless experimentation and how the necessary geometry of warp and weft can become the starting point for a wider enquiry into systems, pattern, order, balance and harmony. She explains: My work often starts with the material and its properties. Once we have played, and are in tune, the material will provide parameters: instructions to the user. Bells ring. There is hardly ever a finished image in mind. That arrives via a merge of material qualities/related numbers. It is always a surprise, and comes from health/honesty. Never in an attempt for 'beauty'. Techniques rarely have names, because I am inventing the way of working to work with the chosen material. I invent them to suit the material. However, I am deeply committed to the structure of weaving and to enlarging its possibilities. Some weaves are possible only with handwork. Others are possible only with the help of a computer connected to a digital loom. But warp and weft are constant, and usually at right angles to each another. Where I use colour it is not in any aesthetic way, but as a locator and to differentiate. Sometimes the results are aesthetically interesting, even pleasing, and that may come though healthy relationships of material and concept. If it does then that is a bonus, but it is never an aim. Areas, spaces, colour: all depends on comparison/ identity. I am always searching for new structures and materials. The narrative is in the making. Nothing is accidental or aesthetic. Ann Sutton, 2021