GAYNOR PERRY: Encephalic Cleansing by Needle

Sunday, 29 September 2024

Encephalic Cleansing by Needle

#1
12 September 2024

#2
15 September 2024

#3
24 September 2024

Encephalic Cleansing is the name I give to my spontaneous works originally produced using black gouache on watercolour paper. This cathartic pursuit later expanded into a form of embroidery using unbleached calico and black thread.

The series began as a practice of purging rather than thinking — gouache applied in a deeply meditative state where instinct replaced intention. It then evolved into Encephalic Cleansing by Needle, allowing whatever occurred through the movement of thread and fabric to become part of the work. Both processes connected me strongly to my subconscious instincts, letting me hover in a space where choices were subliminal, automatic, and freeing.

Working in this way created a bridge into my current oil paintings: the same instinctive, subconscious‑led decision making became the foundation for the portals and continues to shape the emerging body of work. In this sense, the raw immediacy of the Cleansing works expands directly into a broader visual language within the oils.

#4
28 September 2024

#5
3 October 2024

#6
10 October 2024

#7
13 October 2024

At this point, I began alternating between leading with my right and left hand to reduce muscle fatigue in my hand and arm. Hours often pass unnoticed while I’m fully absorbed in sewing. Naturally right-handed, I make an effort to involve my left hand in these activities as much as possible.