The Artist and The Machine follows the highs and lows of Hastings-based artist Lorna Hamilton-Brown. Previously referred to as the ‘Banksy of knitting’, Lorna works in many mediums but this film focuses on the power of the stitch to create knitted pieces of art.
Lorna’s work is at times socially charged and poignant but is always meticulously planned and brilliantly executed. This film explores the person behind the art and why the small coastal town of Hastings where she lives is so important to her creative process. We are shown how Lorna blends a creative, hands-on craft with the almost OCD, mathematical side of vintage machine knitting to amazing effect.
From crushing self-doubt to flourishing creativity, this is a story everyone can relate to, told through the voice of one the UK’s most unique political artists.
The film was picked up by festivals in the UK and USA including the BAFTA-Qualifying Aesthetica Short Film Festival.
Artist – Lorna Hamilton-Brown
Direction – Reuben Armstrong & Jamie Neale
Camera – Reuben Armstrong & Jamie Neale
Edit – Reuben Armstrong
Grade – Joseph Bicknell
Music/Sound Design – Jamie Frye