Each piece is made with a needle and thread and offers an introspective view of her journey.
The use of textile materials is a nod to her seamstress mother and the traditional domestic practice of sewing.
Swaby’s use of thread creates pencil-like drawings that are loose and expressive.
Gio Swaby, “Together We Bloom 3,” 2023, cotton fabric and thread sewn on muslin, 64 x 52 inches. (Courtesy of Claire Oliver Gallery)
The printed fabrics add an element of eccentricity and personal style, all reflective of her identity.
It is learning to embrace the dualities that exist within me through a process that emphasizes accountability and compassion.
I Will Blossom Anywaywill be on view at theClaire Oliver Galleryuntil July 29, 2023.
Gio Swaby, “Where I know You From 4,” 2023, cotton fabric and thread sewn on muslin, 80 x 50 inches (Courtesy of Claire Oliver Gallery)
Scroll down to see more textile art by Swaby.
Bahamian artist Gio Swaby explores the concept of dual identities in her seriesI Will Blossom Anyway.
Gio Swaby, “Self-Portrait 5,” 2023, cotton fabric and thread sewn on muslin ,28 x 38 inches (Courtesy of Claire Oliver Gallery)
Gio Swaby, “Self-Portrait 6,” 2023, cotton fabric and thread sewn on muslin ,28 x 38 inches (Courtesy of Claire Oliver Gallery)
Gio Swaby, “Where I Know You From 3,” 2023, cotton fabric and thread sewn on muslin, 80 x 44 inches (Courtesy of Claire Oliver Gallery)
Gio Swaby, “Where I Know You From 7,” 2023, cotton fabric and thread sewn on muslin, 52 x 62 inches (Courtesy of Claire Oliver Gallery)
Gio Swaby, “Where I Know You From 6,” 2023, cotton fabric and thread sewn on muslin, 40 x 78 inches (Courtesy of Claire Oliver Gallery)
Gio Swaby, “Where I Know You From 5,” 2023, cotton fabric and thread sewn on muslin, 50 x 96 inches (Courtesy of Claire Oliver Gallery)
Installation shot of Gio Swaby’s exhibition “I Will Blossom Anyway” at Claire Oliver Gallery (Courtesy of Claire Oliver Gallery)
Installation shot of Gio Swaby’s exhibition “I Will Blossom Anyway” at Claire Oliver Gallery (Courtesy of Claire Oliver Gallery)
Installation shot of Gio Swaby’s exhibition “I Will Blossom Anyway” at Claire Oliver Gallery (Courtesy of Claire Oliver Gallery)
Installation shot of Gio Swaby’s exhibition “I Will Blossom Anyway” at Claire Oliver Gallery (Courtesy of Claire Oliver Gallery)
