Express

How would you describe your designs?

My woven textiles retain a very personal, hands-on and considered feel, with highly abstracted patterns. These are one-off pieces and limited edition textiles. I respond to the fabric as it is being made, changing the design and the yarns intuitively, in the same way a traditional hand-weaver works in response to the threads in front of them.

What can your creations bring to a home?

My textiles can be used as decoration and practical insulation. They can be placed on a wall as a decorative wall hanging, or against a window to let the light filter through. Alternatively they could be mounted on a screen and used as an interior feature. I also develop bespoke textiles for furniture.

Where do you find inspiration?

Much of my inspiration is found in my own photographs. I am particularly drawn to surfaces that manifest the beauty of the everyday, such as peeling walls and distressed decaying surfaces. I enjoy looking at objects that change their qualities over time. Since moving to Cornwall, nature has especially become an integral part of my design process, and many of my designs have become very botanical.

What are you working on at the moment?

In addition to teaching textile design at University College Falmouth, I am currently working on a private commission for a textile piece to be placed against a window and a series of wall pieces for a gallery in St Ives. I am also developing samples for furnishing textiles for George Spencer Designs, and a collaborative project with furniture designer Gary Allson, for a furniture piece to be exhibited in North Carolina next year.

What does the future hold for you?

More commissions, exhibitions and collaborations, and hopefully a long holiday in the Greek Islands! .

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