Some historians estimate that the method of producing textiles has been around for tens of thousands of years, but the rise of contemporary artists reinventing weaving with fresh, provocative works proves that this age-old art practice is having something of a renaissance. 

Tapestries of Life is a contemporary art exhibition of large-scale weaving works, featuring vibrant colours and texture. 

Artist Shaz Papallo has incorporated her surroundings into each piece, including the coral reefs, northern beaches and hillside landscapes of NSW. 

Sourcing materials for functionality, texture and colour, such as hemp, cotton, leather, jute, wool and silk cocoons, some of the pieces have been handknitted or crocheted before added to the tapestries to create texture.

To view the Tapestries of Life exhibition, visit the Creative Library from Thursday 1 August to Sunday 31 August 2025. 

For further information, please email creative.library@northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au