'Found' and re-used in the studio

I have spent the last few days in the studio literally getting to grip to continuing some of the work which has been on hold whilst I had my arm in plaster. I have been able to do some drawing and limited free-motion stitching I have literally been itching to move on with for my forthcoming exhibition at the Knitting and Stitching Show in Alexandra Palace has been very much on hold whilst my wrist gains strength.

Resting as I work in the last month or so has made me re-look at the 'outside' studio surroundings. It was formerly Derek's shed which he gifted to me and converted to my space whilst he built himself another 'man-shed' further down the garden. It is big enough. A little over 2 metres wide and about 4 deep. It looks deceptively larger.

The studio is tucked into the garden and the window offers me a view to where Derek likes to sit in the garden.

I am grateful for this space which I use for wet-work including printing and painting. What I particularly like is the evidence of the buildings original function as a tool-shed and workroom echoed in the storage and some of Derek's amazing redeployment of objects in the structure The studio has itself, gone through many different configurations including my own adaptations in the last coupe of years since Derek's Stroke (under his guidance)

A vertical drying rack sits above the space. Studio before painting took place of the wooden cupboards at the back space.

Derek.s ingenious fixing devices made form old tools and a poker. The old doors hide the electric junction box and power sockets

A girl can never have too many shelves. Storage for pens, threads and artwork (Cultivate pieces) in progress. I have added some simple shelves made from fence panels to Derek's beautifully crafted shelves created from old drawing boards (above picture)

This table area has a toughened glass base and splashback created from an old door to provide a large print surface.

Brushes hanging from old knitting needles.

A piece of canvas hangs in front of the cupboards allowing me to pin work in progress. Easily removed form the hooks as needed

I even found the side of an old baby cot last week and have put in pace as a drying rack.

You can also see a more in-depth video of my working in my space in this lovely video filmed by Nathalie Banaigs

So this re-using things really is part of our lives. We live in a space where Derek's creative talent for invention and re-imagining  surrounds us in our home and garden. I am grateful for my little space in our home.

If you would like to work with me please contact me using the form on this website. Meanwhile, I will be working in the studios at West Dean College in September.

UNFOLDING LANDSCAPES – CLOTH, PAPER AND STITCH 16 to 19 September 2024

Take inspiration from both material and place to create a visual narrative and explore the use of layers in found textiles and papers to create folding forms and objects inspired by the land and landscape.