The Jackets

I have three jacket inherited from my brother after his violent death in 1982. From time to time - like the best of transitional objects - I pick them up, sometimes wear them, occasionally wash them. This is a document of our continuing bond. It begins with The Wrangler, the other two will be added in their time.

The WranglerEarly on the right cuff separated from the sleeve and for a while I left it that way, liking the idea that its coming apart was evidence that we had both been involved in wearing it out. And, somehow, the physical separation of edges see… — The Wrangler
Early on the right cuff separated from the sleeve and for a while I left it that way, liking the idea that its coming apart was evidence that we had both been involved in wearing it out. And, somehow, the physical separation of edges seemed appropriate. Then, caught on a door handle, it ripped. Stitched with colourful threads, and patched with the trimmed edge from an embroidery I had made for my son, it is our continuing bond and a celebration of his life. I decided not to completely stitch up the hole, that felt too final, and a tiny pocket remains. I wear this one most, it feels both timeless and 'out of time'.

By a Thread May - June 2016 at Gawthorpe Textiles Collection (Exhibition photograph: Jenny Waterson) — By a Thread May - June 2016 at Gawthorpe Textiles Collection (Exhibition photograph: Jenny Waterson)

By a Thread May - June 2016 at Gawthorpe Textiles Collection (Exhibition photograph: Jenny Waterson) — By a Thread May - June 2016 at Gawthorpe Textiles Collection (Exhibition photograph: Jenny Waterson)