A new Mob of Kelp Sheep is a conceptual place-based idea that tells a story and honours tradition, culture and history in Newfoundland. Houston's Kelp Sheep are made with reclaimed, upcycled and indigenous materials which reference traditional craft, materials and practices (quilting, weaving, fence building, hunting, food security...) creating relatable, quirky sculptures full of stories shared.
Signed on interior wood frame, BHSTN/24786-19-#9 and BHSTN/24786-19-#11
The Kelp Sheep are a testament to the resilience and resourcefulness of Newfoundlanders and their flocks. Made from kelp, wrack, eel grass and flotsam; they are sentinals, inspired by outport communities that have kept sheep for over 200 years, wintering inland, summering on nearby islands. They stand waiting for that dory to take them to a nearby island to graze, unfettered and safe.
Barbara Houston's ArtStudio + Gallery + SHEEPSHoP is located in Bonavista, Newfoundland. Originally a flatlander from Saskatchewan, Houston examines the intersection of art, craft and design through stories and materials to capture the landscapes of people, place, community and belonging.
Houston's work is in private collections here at home in Newfoundland, across Canada, USA + Europe.
