Maker: Sarah Russell

Panel number: 506

Petition sheet number: Did not sign 1893 petition

Person honouring: Louise Russell

Relationship to maker: My mother

My mother Louise Russell (1932–2012) was a scientist when science was still an unusual career for women in New Zealand. She was the first women chemist employed in her industrial role when women were still mainly working in the offices. Amongst other things she developed a process to make the army green paint cheaper and more stable. 

Later in life she became a teacher and influenced future generations. Louise was also a keen embroiderer. I decided to do a banner celebrating scientists as it is only in recent times, around 1970, that women could study and work in science as scientists and not just technicians. As science is about experiments, discovery, and pushing boundaries I used experimental bits that Louise made on the banner. The 46 small stars represent 46 people who signed one page of the petition.

Panel materials: Felt linen, cotton and silk fibres which I had. I purchased three iron-on stars.