‘Embroidery is a unique example of an artform that actively seeks to manipulate the surface and stimulate a touch perception even when the work itself cannot be touched’.

I am an embroidery artist originally from Hull in the north of England and a recent graduate from the Royal School of Needlework with a First Class BA (Hons) in hand embroidery. I love to immerse myself in colour, pattern and texture, these are important elements in my work as they help express my feelings and bring my work to life. My designs are always fun and whimsical, they are very distinctive and never boring. I work in a very intuitive way, inspired by anything around me, bringing impressions out of objects and finding pattern in almost anything which is why I believe my subconscious is very near the surface as it comes into play a lot when designing.

I work mostly in hand embroidery but I also enjoy working in digital media, creating prints of colourful designs. With embroidery I am passionate about using found and recycled items within my work and through a combination of processes within my embroidery I use unconventional materials and make them conventional. Using traditional hand embroidery techniques but with a contemporary twist. Texture is a huge part in my embroidery work as it fulfils all senses rather than just vision.

I believe texture plays a significant part in embroidery and its important to keep stimulating our sense of touch, ‘as humans we cannot help but touch something’ I work best when I can use unusual materials as they can be turned into something much more with the use of imagination and manipulation, they create curiosity for the viewer. Using objects like pipe cleaners, wire, scubi strings and straws to create unique embellishments and 3D pieces, I enjoy using these components with the use of traditional hand embroidery techniques.

I want the observer to feel elated and connected to my work, I want them to be happy and resonate in some way with my colourful, amusing designs. I feel as though my designs can bring a smile to anyone’s face, the colours I use are so vibrant and remind myself of being a child, bringing back joyful childhood memories. The tactile essence of my work would bring joy and curiosity to someone as we gain pleasure from feeling certain textures and trying to find out what materials I have used will be interesting for the audience.