Sheep’s Own Country…  – Pennie Metcalfe

For over thirty years, I have walked alongside sheep in our countryside and on the tops of our wild, bleak, ancient moorlands. These animals roam through the stunningly beautiful ancient stone landscapes, and for me, these habitats belong to these timeless providers. Their ongoing presence in all weathers offers us a chance to connect and celebrate a more thoughtful and simpler way of life. These images illustrate the profound meanings we associate with these ancient animals regarding our culture, spirituality, history, and coexistence in the world. They have provided us with warmth, food, companionship, and sustainability with minimal demands on nature or environmental impact, especially in an increasingly unstable world.
Wool alone inspires us with endless possibilities for celebration: creation, textiles and fashion, art, product design, environmental sustainability, renewable energy, and food cultivation. With the ongoing climate change, even more opportunities will undoubtedly arise. As an artist specialising in wool fibre, I sought to create a piece that honours the rich heritage of wool while paying tribute to these ancient material providers. I intended to weave together the story of wool’s journey through time, showcasing its significance in human history. Additionally, I aimed to highlight and celebrate the nomadic lifestyle of the farmers who have tended to these flocks, reflecting their deep connection to the land and the cyclical nature of their livelihoods.
Through this artwork, I hoped to evoke a sense of appreciation for the habitat, the material, and the people who nurture and provide.