I am a textile and community artist using reclaimed and sustainable materials in my work.
Over the last few years my passions of environment, psychology and textiles have become integrated in my art works. The materials I use are varied and include natural plant materials and dyes; regenerative fibres (such as hemp and British wool); reclaimed fabrics and threads; teabags; plastic and scrap metal (from domestic waste). These natural, found and reclaimed materials are intrinsic to my work, not just in making a point about wastage in our modern world but in encapsulating the theme of transformation. The discarded, mundane, and natural are worked through simple, repetitive methods like stitching, weaving and wrapping. I find this process soothing and, as a piece comes together a sense of wonder at a form emerging from disparate parts is integral to my pieces.
My community art projects have included eco-art projects to champion the reuse of household materials, like plastic bags; paddling pools and fabric to create large, bold installations as a means of engaging groups in creating in a simple, accessible way. The other aspect of my community work is slow stitch groups, which offer a more reflective process, creative space, and the option to share experiences. In both contexts I enjoy the collaborative process and seeing how an idea that I have put forward, often evolves, and is shaped by the group.