As a female contemporary community textile artist based in Amber Valley, Derbyshire, my work is a kind, Nature-sensitive, vibrant exploration of heritage textiles, creative wellbeing, and the transformative power of socially engaged arts.

 

Inspired by the flax that flourishes in my front garden, I use this versatile plant as both a material and a metaphor to reconnect our community with its rich textile history, fostering a deeper understanding of our shared narratives.

 

My artistic practice embraces the principles of kindness and intentional slowness, focusing on participatory arts to encourage local residents to co-create and engage with their heritage. I believe that by nurturing these connections, we can enhance creative wellbeing and strengthen community bonds.

 

In my role in Neighbourhood Creative Agents with Make/Shift, part of Arts Council England's Creative People and Places initiative, I contribute to a team in leading cultural projects that reflect their unique experiences. This focus on inclusive arts engagement empowers individuals to express their creativity, allowing them to share their stories while promoting creative health.

 

One of my key initiatives is the Community Flax Project, a hands-on exploration of land, labour, and legacy. I aim to cultivate, harvest, process, and hand-spin flax, sharing this journey through workshops, storytelling, and site-responsive installations. These projects celebrate local knowledge and delve into overlooked histories, emphasising the importance of our textile heritage.

 

I have also had the privilege of leading community engagement for the Turner Prize 2021 with Array Collective, co-creating the Coventry Banner, and contributing to award-nominated projects during Coventry City of Culture. My work has been recognised in Dr. Rachel Marsden's article in 'Social Works? Journal of Social Art Practice,' highlighting the role of community textiles in promoting creative health and social wellbeing.

 

Trained in Textile Design & Design Management at UMIST, and descended from the Horrockses weavers of Lancashire, I continue a legacy of innovation through a regenerative, socially engaged textile practice. 

 

Through my dedication to heritage textiles and community engagement, I strive to stitch resilience and hope into the fabric of Derbyshire and beyond, inviting others to embark on a collective journey of creative discovery.

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