Sharing and conversing about my process and available work is a delight during Open Studios especially when visitors are intrigued to learn that each image they see on paper or cloth came directly from individual leaves. I largely use plants from my garden or gathered from nearby woodlands, occasionally supplementing these with waste leaves gifted from my local florist.

My central process of botanical contact printing involves slowly coaxing colour, texture and detail from plant material onto cloth using the assistance of natural tannins, mordants, and dyes along with the application of heat, pressure and moisture.

I print directly onto natural fibres such as paper, wool, silk, linen or cotton as well as wool felt and a wool/silk laminate which I make by hand. 

These images are captured directly onto scarves, shawls and pre-loved clothing. All fabric is light and wash-fast. I also make yardage, later sewn, quilted or used in textile collage. Images made on paper are incorporated into cards, framable prints or laminated onto wall mountable wooden blocks.

I also enjoy creating small sculptural vessels in wool felt. These too are inspired by natural colours and forms. Some are simple and unadorned, others I print in the same manner as cloth then embellish with stitch or beads. 

I began my journey of making art over 20 years ago after enrolling in a short course which involved abstract mono printing then journalling reflectively about the printed images.  

The instructor and process unlocked an entirely new avenue of insight and expression within me and I found that art making provided a joyful and enriching counter balance to other aspects of my life. I’ve been compelled to create in various media ever since. Following my interests as they’ve evolved, I’ve learned new skills and techniques studying with renowned textile art teachers. I’m curious to explore and develop other methods of print and mark making to add to my practice.

I’m continually awed and inspired by the wonder and resilience of nature in all its colours, forms and seasons and how such images resonate with the human spirit.