The feel of fabric has always attracted me. As a child I would make clothes for my dolls, adding simple stitches to embellish, finding unusual buttons to add. Over the years, living and working abroad, I collected many interesting textiles, often drawn to the worn and damaged pieces which told a story. It opened my eyes to creating beyond the functional and decorative.
I am largely self-taught through experimenting and seeking out new techniques and processes.
Botanical printing has occupied me for several years. Discovered through buying some fabric pieces which fascinated me, I set out to master the technique for myself and a real journey of discovery it continues to be! I print onto many different fabrics from silk to French linen, wool, and also on paper. I use the prints to make scarves and cushions and also in mixed media art work.
I find myself drawn to a theme which I explore and develop. Currently I find the subject of birds is taking me along a path of experiment. Moths, for which I create small environments in which to place my textile moths, embellishing with stitch, textured elements and dyes is an on-going fascination. Landscapes with trees, plants and roots is a theme I return to.
Getting my own studio in the garden when I moved to Woolpit four years ago has given me the perfect space to practice and my garden is often hung with washed fabrics waiting to inspire.