When looking at this prompt and how it relates to New Zealand my immediate response was all the swing bridges on all the walking tracks throughout the country. New Zealand is well known for tracks like the Heaphy, the Abel Tasman, St James Walkway and many many more. There are many fiords or impassable parts in some of these places where the only way to get across is via a swing bridge.

These are very flexible but structurally very sound. However when you come to cross and stand at the start of the bridge you can suddenly think its unsafe to cross. The structure looks flimsy and its usually along way up. You take the first step or two and the bridge sways ever so slightly……fear can take hold. You know its safe to cross but you need to get your mind right and carry on.

In this work I have tried to capture the strength of the bridge with its connecting chains and rails but when you look below its a swirl of madness: why am I doing this, its not safe, it moves too much, how can I cross?

However if you look ahead at the greenery and where you want to get to you have the strength to carry on and get across.

Machine pieced and quilted, hand painted and dyed fabrics

40in High x 22in Wide