Cornish Tiddlers - Open Studios

Textural stitched art. Originals, prints & cards from soft plastics/recycled materials. Inspired by nature, sea creatures and moorland landscapes.

I am captivated by those little natural things that are in such close proximity to me- creatures in rockpools, critters in hedgerows and suchlike.

As an artist in Cornwall, I am joyfully inspired by the rugged landscape and glorious wildlife around me. You will be able to see me working, alongside another artist, in the Oasis Room. I will be embellishing my poly-fusion pieces, and stitching into them. I enjoy recycling and repurposing materials into works of art, unrecognisable from their original form. Stitching and printing are my key techniques and reflect my signature style. My pieces also link to my long standing interests in environmental concerns. My materials are a visual acknowledgement to the microplastics within the seas.

My technique started when I made carnival costumes from everyday packaging. My children were happy contestants- as two fishy tins of ‘Cornish Tiddlers’. I created homemade giant Pilchard tins out of cardboard and the ‘fish heads’ from soft plastics and general household waste. It worked out really well- and much fun was had by all. This was a seed of an idea for a technique I have carried on. I love the fact that items become something entirely new.

Plastic bags, sweet wrappers, waste materials, old books and textiles have all featured in my work over the years.

My iron and sewing machine blend together to make multi-layered pieces. I also print using tetra packs making intaglio prints as well as constructing relief collagraphs from cardboard waste and other ‘found’ textures.

Collaged plastics provide textures and patterns, although you have to look hard to spot some of the original base materials!

I am attracted to the ‘fabric and feel’ of the area I live in as well as how Cornish folklore and childhood stories colour perception and images of a place.

A range of framed originals, prints and cards will be on sale. Commissions can also be undertaken.