Moonlight becomes you (two squirrels)

RESEARCH BACKGROUND Moonlight becomes you (two squirrels) was first exhibited as a component of an immersive low lit "nocturnal" installation that explored biodiversity ("New 2003" ACCA). In the exhibition "Soft Core" (2016) this artwork is highlighted as an exemplar of contemporary "Soft Sculpture"; presented individually and in a distinctly new context. Drawing on the rich lode of feminist theory Weaver asks, "to what extent can craft based practices of crochet and embroidery be employed as techniques in sculpture to inscribe terrain, suggest the mutable, and beckon touch?" RESEARCH CONTRIBUTION "Softness" in sculpture can be associated with abject qualities: references to the body; to humble materials and to discarded matter. I noticed when I placed my sculpture on a bright white painted wall in a gallery that previously functioned as a power station - that the "softness" of the work was highlighted, changing its formal qualities and potential readings markedly from its original presentation. Found materials; aluminium chain, artificial fur and painted pigskin could be clearly apprehended, accentuating the sculptures abject and bodily references, and providing me with new insight into the potential for a perceived "ugliness" to function as a desired attribute in my work. New knowledge I continue to test and explore in current sculpture and painting. RESEARCH SIGNIFICANCE Michael Do curated "Soft Core" for the Casula Powerhouse Arts Centre Sydney, NSW. Co-exhibitors include, Tony Oursler, Brook Andrew, Michael Parekowhai and Patricia Piccinini. Weaver's work "Moonlight Becomes You (Two Squirrels)" is featured in this exhibition; accompanying catalogue, national press and education program. From 2016 - 2019, "Soft Core" will tour in partnership with Museums & Galleries NSW - 11 regional galleries across NSW, Vic and QLD to an anticipated audience in excess of 75,000. This is the first time this work has been submitted to ERA.