I am textile designer maker and artist who specialises in knit, embroidery, and other forms of constructed textiles.
I aim to create work that has a positive and uplifting impact on people and discusses stories and issues that affect and inspire our communities. Through direct handling of materials, I develop and translate stories into three dimensional forms, often working intuitively and organically with unexpected material combinations and structures. I believe in celebrating our cultural identity through championing traditional handcraft skills to tell our story.
‘My Astute Mother’
My final major project is inspired by my mother Najankey Barrow and my connection to her. The pieces of artwork I have created narrate the story of her life, re-exploring the journey I shared with my mother, looking at what connects us, and her impact on the family and her community.
Her journey:
‘At first it was beautiful, full of love and happiness, and a baby.
Then everything came crashing down, her husband lost, joy was gone, along with all that she owned, only mothers love was left.
Not favoured by culture, especially in a foreign land of matrimony.
Four borders crossed, dangerously journeyed, keeping safe her treasured child.
Made it to her homeland, fixed herself again, and created a community of love around her.’
The journeys taken by yarn, structure, texture and colour in this body of work, express the deep emotions held within this highly personal narrative. I welcome you to my mom and her story………………………………………………………………………..
