I have begun to look at weaving as a means of stitching.  Comparisons can be made whilst making. I  am really enjoying learning a new skill and the contemplative nature of the weaving, much like running stitch. 

These three pieces mark the end of my practical research for my PhD or the beginning of something new.

It’s time I got back here.  I have handed in my Ph.D. thesis this week with a mixture of feelings.  Pleased I can now get back to the stitching !!!! that I had to put on one side for the likes of contents pages, abstracts and appendices.

I have three large scale pieces to finish for my final exhibition and  viva in April.   This is the start of one of the pieces; adding stitching to a Victorian under garment.

More beautiful colour from the  Horseradish, probably the last of this season.

The security blanket is coming along

I  am  doing lots of writing and recording at the moment and no stitching.  I have had to start some contemplative stitching and it feels a little like a security blanket.

These threads were all dyed from plants in my garden. 

Four friends and I are going to be working in a pop up studio in Bath; Walcot Chapel  This is an old mortuary chapel and is a very calm space to work; the public might wander in and out or not.  Its the opportunity to work together in a different space and absorb the charm and calm of the space.  We have to take everything with us even water and at first I thought this was going to be difficult but now I am looking upon it as an opportunity.  I have to get there daily either by walking or the bus so can’t carry much with me and as I usually work minimally this will give me the chance to look at this as an important aspect of my work.

Everything I take with me I have to carry – so I have to really question ‘ what is it I really need with me to stitch’? To fulfil my concept of the piece being stitched? The short answer is not much – I shall include the travelling to the space as working and reflecting on the process and practice of working in this space.

It will be challenging but I hope we shall have some interesting conversations with each other and if any members of the public do come in, then with them also.

I have begun to make some natural inks. This is my first try at blackberry ink and my bamboo pens.

Hanging out to dry after washing. Got rather muddy at Nature in Art.

I love the way that the Autumn sunshine is showing the drawings.