Little Ringtail Possum, Wire Frame, Hand Knitted Fabric by Elizabeth McAllister
Ringtail Possums are sociable, arboreal marsupials living in family groups in dreys (they weave shrubbery to make these little beds). A normal adult weight is between 800g to 1kg. There are generally two pouched young, occasionally triplets, and four are possible as the mother has four teats. This artwork is created on a wire frame, covered with a hand knitted fabric of Baby alpaca, Mohair, Merino. Size: 7 x 13 x 7 cm
Artist Bio:
My little articulated sculptures are inspired by the captivating beauty of wildlife.
This collection is a heartfelt tribute to the rich diversity of Australian animals and those beyond, created from a deep love of nature and a desire to honour these creatures in a unique, handmade way.
Each sculpture is knitted with tiny needles using fine, high-quality fibres-silk, mohair, alpaca, bamboo, Australian cotton, and even copper wire. Every stitch is carefully considered to bring a lifelike presence to these miniature beings. It's a slow, meditative process that reflects both my admiration for the animal world and my passion for intentional, handcrafted art.
My journey began with a fascination for the tactile beauty of yarns and a childhood spent creating animals from fabric and thread. As a certified wildlife carer, l've had the privilege of close encounters with native species-experiences that inspire the realism and detail in my work.
Through my art, I aim to show that the humble knitted stitch can be transformed into something truly expressive-more than fabric, it becomes a celebration of life.