Over decades, Astrid Bennett’s work has focused on painted, printed and dyed textiles. In her current body of work, she also includes drawing and mixed media, creating large tarps and small scrolls. 

"I see tarps as protective, versatile, adaptive. These embody the best attributes of textiles as installation or sculpture, with the addition of gestures common in painting, printing and mixed media. Part object, part theater set, these pieces can be used interchangeably in standard exhibitions or in installation indoors or out. Scrolls even accompany me on travels, with opportunities for drawing and photography in unaccustomed settings."

With these artworks, she asks, what is the role of art in our fraught, modern society ruled by technology and uncertainty? What does it mean to be a maker under circumstances where political comment, identity and narrative are a primary conversation? Is there a role for creative expression in non-narrative ways, much like the role that music performs?