Artist statement
I am a maker, educator, author and mentor in contemporary stitched textiles. And, like many textile artists and practitioners, I am a collector. From found objects in the street, to old fabrics salvaged from charity shops, each find inspires me and informs and enriches my practice.
I have always had a passion for stitching and creating art from cloth, threads and recycled items, selling my first upcycled designs whilst in my teens. I am intrigued by the journeys textiles take and am fascinated by the wear and tear of my raw materials, and the marks and memories they hold and conceal. I upcycle my materials from second-hand clothing, old household linen, discarded embroideries, old uniforms, and previously worn underwear.
My current practice continues to investigate the themes of identity, gender and sustainability. I am increasingly using text in my textiles to explore contemporary issues and express a social commentary on important topics from a feminist perspective.
I have worked in the creative industries for more than thirty years teaching, lecturing, writing, making, exhibiting and selling my textile artwork internationally. I gained my Masters in Contemporary Applied Arts in 2011 with a Distinction.
My work has been filmed by the BBC, Sky Arts, The Press Association and independent TV and film companies, and following my hour on the Fourth Plinth in Trafalgar Square, I feature in Antony Gormley’s book ‘One and Other’. I am co-author of two Batsford titles: How to be Creative in Textile Art and Contemporary Appliqué.
I love sharing my passion for textiles and design. I teach onsite and online classes and run a Masterclass programme for intermediate and advanced students by distance learning.
