Art

This piece of art work was my submission for the Ilkley Arts Secret Postcard Exhibition in which members of the public bid on each postcard without knowing the artist. All proceeds from the event went to the worthy charity 'Shelter.'

My entry - 'Shelter in the Mountains' consisted of torn papers formed into a collage, watercolours and finished with machine stitching. I loved the simplicity of this artwork encompassing the thought that shelter can be so simple and basic and yet can provide warmth and comfort to its inhabitants. No matter how much or little money we have, we are all entitled to shelter to make us feel safe.

This textile art piece was created as part of the Riverkin project which was managed by Leeds University. The project was a study of the River Nidd at Knaresborough, North Yorkshire, into how the river had formed a relationship and connection with the local community over the years. My textile piece was part of a community quilt that was formed to represent this connection.

In my piece entitled 'Memories' I looked at how the river acted as a vessel for holding the memories of people who had spent time at the river over the years. Rivers may change in depth and speed of movement but they are still a constant to the community, ever present, providing stability and hope. I used a wide variety of textiles for this piece, all created onto a backing of felt. Of course, the main colour theme was green and blue and I embroidered the words 'Memories gently flow' into the piece, which I felt added more movement within the piece to give the impression of a flowing river.

This piece is a Dorset Button, an ancient traditional English craft, the forerunner for the modern buttons that we know today. Dorset Button making is slowly making a comeback as many crafters and textile artists, including myself, are eager to learn more about this wonderful crafts.

The basic method of creating a Dorset Button is to wrap thread or yarn around a metal or wooden ring and then create a pattern by using different weaving methods. The designs can be simple or slightly more ornate such as this one I created which I made into a wall or tree decoration. Ideas for Dorset Buttons are limitless - jewellery, Christmas Tree decorations, textile art and even buttons!