Industrial Lace

Artist Statement:

Industrial Lace by Denise Lamby transforms discarded aluminum can tabs into an intricate, sculptural bag. Hand-crocheted with black metallic thread, the work draws on traditional textile techniques, creating a striking contrast between the delicacy of lace and the hardness of industrial materials.

The process was slow and meditative—each tab was cleaned, sorted, and tooled by the artist to remove sharp edges, with bent or broken pieces discarded. Hundreds of individual tabs were carefully woven together, their rhythmic repetition forming a shimmering, lace-like surface that celebrates transformation and resilience.

Collected with the help of Sunshine Coast locals, the can tabs represent shared connections and hidden potential in the overlooked. Industrial Lace reflects on cycles of consumption and reuse, inviting viewers to reconsider notions of value and permanence while celebrating artistry, collaboration, and reinvention.