artists register

Statement

For many years I worked on paper and made abstract prints, drawings and paintings.  In the late 80's I made a series of prints on recycled paper I found in a Russian toilet.  Friends started bringing me paper from around the world.  I built up quite a collection.

In 1998 I started using paper to make vessels.  They were built with pulps and handmade papers.  I created ribs and ridges on the pots with string.  I used graphite, wax, grit, stains, monoprints and plant papers to make interesting finishes.  It was a long, slow, sticky process but the finished objects were robust and, I like to think, elegant.

In 2009, on a whim, I attended a textile course at West Dean College and started applying my interest in abstract pattern and design to fabrics.  I fold and clamp material with clips and blocks then dye and bleach it.  I paint and print on cloth and use rust to stain it.  I like exploring the juxtaposition of structure and accident.  Each new piece that comes out of the bucket is a surprise.  It is also very messy, but I quite enjoy mess.

Although I have worked with different media I feel that my work has always possessed the same distinctive structural stamp.

Biography