MURIEL'S TREASURE This body of work considers the relationship between us as humans and our personal possessions. Muriel's treasure is a selection of objects and artifacts treasured and revered by Josephine Muriel's daughter, since Muriel's death some years ago. These objects were found scattered around Josephine's home, often beside a photograph of Muriel, with some were more safely stored wrapped carefully in tissue paper and placed in tiny boxes which we opened with the greatest of care and anticipation. Despite Muriel being my Grandmother, many of these things I had never seen. The tactility of these objects and the enormous sentimental value bestowed upon them was immediately apparent. Tactility was of particular importance in this project having noticed the way Jospehine held and caressed her treasures. Images were printed onto fabric to retain this tactile link with each object and the obviously important sensory experience.
Further research was conducted into Sensory Stimulation Therapy and this took the project into a whole new direction. This warrants further exploration but considers the notion of combining photography with textiles to create sensory objects for people with dementia. These have the potential to facilitate communication, ease stress and possibly stimulate memories in those who have dementia.