Inheritance opened at Arts Space Wodonga on Saturday.

Melbourne artist Penelope Campbell’s multimedia exhibition comprises about 18 sculpture, recycled and reconstructed textiles and inherited objects.

Campbell said hand-stitched cotton, lace and doilies evoked a physical attachment to our past and suggested our vulnerability to forces within our bodies.

“I hope it inspires people to think more deeply about inheritance; not just physical heirlooms, it’s also what’s going on inside, the things we don’t see,” she said.

After her first breast cancer diagnosis in 2004, Campbell was inspired to study in 2006, which culminated in her Master of Visual Arts in 2011.

During her masters she was diagnosed with another breast cancer and opted for genetic testing.

“I was found to have the BRCA gene mutation, which is prevalent in the Ashkenazi Jewish community,” she said.

“Consequently, in my mind’s eye all I could see were cells.”

Campbell will run a workshop in which participants will create pieces from repurposed antique table linen, lace and embroideries on February 22 from 6pm at Arts Space Wodonga.

Inheritance runs until March 10.