book

This celebrated artist, author and teacher is seen working in her studio and outlining recent sequences of study leading to the present stage of an ongoing and continuous enquiry. It is a pause on a cultural journey between quests for information and inspiration to focus on as an artist and equally to pass on as a bundle of educational resource, wit and energy. This study also extends to the production of new titles each year for the renowned book series produced with Jan Beaney who is also featured in these videos.

The notion of pathways is central to a theme of moving along; there were earlier studies of rich, ancient carpets reflecting use in the past. Now in the Five minutes from home series this is extended to recording impacted layers of evidence of use on urban walkways. The processes shown involve juxtaposing a richness of sketchbook and 'ideas wall' recording which contrasts extremes of pattern, tone, texture and colour. This is celebrated in opulent materials and then stitching to achieve further enrichment. These are then pushed back into new relationships using an embellisher, to suggest layers of meaning. In all the stages of observing, experimenting and realisation (and equally in aspects of non-realisation) there is a vigorous and open presentation of the artist's current position along her chosen individual path.

"My work tends to be a synthesis of memory and observation. Sketchbooks are essential not just for recording information but as a vehicle for exploring ideas. Quality of surface has been a driving force behind much of the work and I often use mixed media grounds with contrasting aspects such as velvet on scrim.

A fascination with travel and a fusion of past and present is a recurring theme. Carpets and pathways have always held great appeal. I particularly like old worn kilims where the colours and patterns indicate an essence of their previous owners.

My current work responds to an ongoing interest in pathways, but this time close to home. It has developed into an intimate study of walks from my home and the random changes and daily rhythms that etch themselves into the fabric of the path. Pathways merge into carpets to form cloths of mark and memory."