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I originally trained in Fashion Design at Solent University and designed clothes and scarves for an international textile agent. However in 1992 I decided to return to my first love of painting,

and studied Textile Design B.A. (Hons) at Nottingham & Trent University.

 

In 1995 I started my own business designing and producing embroidered fabrics for Liberty, including pictures, cushions, lighting, and wall hangings. I also produced three one off collections for John Lewis, a Valentines Story and a Spring Summer Collection of framed pieces.

 

Whilst exhibiting at the Country Living Spring Fair in 2002 the Japanese store, Takashimaya.

selected British Makers to take part in a National Craft promotion to travel and work across the East and West Coast of Japan, exhibiting alongside the Princess Diana Althorpe Collection. I stayed in Japan to research the art of Hapa-Zome, Ikebana, and the ethos Wabi Sabi. I have always maintained a strong sense of global responsibility -  I only use natural fabrics and colours are extracted from flowers, herbs and vegetables grown in my garden. I invest a substantial amount of time and research into sourcing my materials and many of the papers are from the developing world, where rural communities rely solely on this as a source of income.

 

The art I produce is inspired by the cycle of nature and I am a firm believer in the 'Circular Economy', Simplicity and authenticity is key and in 2018 I trained as an Arts Award Adviser and in Mental Health First Aid to further my knowledge on mindfulness and wellbeing.

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I feel passionately that we should respect the industriousness, skill, and talent of traditional hand crafted possessions and not be so intent on saving on costs by using products which are replicated in factories in Europe. Embroidery Workshops are with small groups of four with a person centred approach to delivery and planning. 

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