Emily Fitzsimons

What things do you use for a cushion?

 Cushions are there to soften the harshness of life, protecting us from the hard edges. They make life more comfortable – well, sometimes they do. Cushions? are modelled on pharmaceuticals that give a little protection to brains that sometimes need it. Artist Emily Fitzsimons has a mixed history with medication: “I remember when I first went on antidepressants, being told they are a cushion while you sort yourself out. I’ve had a love/hate relationship with them which is why I wanted to put a question mark at the end of the title”. You can use these cushions however you want: lean on them, sit on them, hold, hit each other with them, discuss their effects – whatever you want. 

How do you feel about these cushions?  

Emily Fitzsimons is an artist who primarily uses knitting, a medium traditionally used for practical purposes, to create whimsical works. Her work may upsize something that is usually tiny, downsize something large or incorporate unusual materials. Emily uses her work to challenge the way we see our everyday, hopefully adding a little beauty and humour to it. Emily has been knitting since her teens after being retaught many times by her Nanna until it stuck, now she knits where and whenever she can get away with it (you’d be surprised!) 