About me
I am often asked where I get my inspiration:
To be honest, everywhere! Sometimes it is simply a word, a quote or a poem – my global ‘Dangerous Pockets Project’ came from a poem by Sharon Owens, ‘Dangerous Coats’.
My surroundings reflect strongly in my work: I live on a ramshackle old farm in a tiny hamlet in the southeast of England. Surrounded by trees and lakes, it is a tranquil place where my only neighbours are the forest folk: foxes, badgers, deer, squirrels, and owls.
The peace and quiet of this beautiful spot inspire my artwork, reflecting the calm and mindfulness that come from being close to nature. The serenity of my surroundings naturally flows into my slow stitching, making each piece a soothing and reflective experience. I hope these elements will be transferred to you as you join me in the Slow Stitch School.
What topics will be explored?
My personal specialty is creating slow-stitched books; you’ll find some inspiring examples among the workshops available. But there is more than just books in the Slow Stitch School! You’ll also discover projects for interactive greeting cards and wearable art, plus other delightful creations.
Additionally, there is a year-long, culturally inspired slow stitch book project with a new chapter introduced each month. In 2023 we worked on the ‘Japanese Inspired’ slow stitch book’, in 2024 it is ‘Circle Inspired’ slow stitch book (still looking at Japanese influences) and in 2025 it will be influenced by Brazil.
My workshops often feature a cultural dimension, drawing inspiration from a blend of modern and traditional techniques from around the world. This approach not only adds depth and variety to our creative process but also helps us to connect with global traditions and practices, enriching our learning experience and reminding us of the importance of embracing and loving people from all corners of the world – cultivating a sense of unity, peace and understanding through our shared creativity.