Posted .I have moved studio this summer to be in my home town of Belper. I am now at ‘Fleet Arts’. It is an old school house building and has been an arts centre for many years. From here I am able to have my messy space down in the basement and then use the hall upstairs to run workshops. The hall is a larger space so I can accommodate more people. I am looking forward to running my first workshop here on 20th Oct.
Why you are asking? Its not November.
Well let me explain. Creatively I feel like a Catherine wheel.
This time of the year things are very slow to get off the ground. I spend a lot of time thinking about new ideas and projects. I complete my tax return and spend lots of time promoting, with email and lots of screen time.
I want to get making, but I feel a lack of motivation. It seems to happen every January. I slowly start to pick up again, start to make, create and pick up momentum. Eventually I end up whizzing and busy, busy and then I will fizzle out, usually around August time. Right now I need someone to light my fuse!
It’s funny when I am really busy I think of loads of things I want to make, but then don’t have the time. Right now I have more time but don’t feel like it. I am trying to go with the flow. I want to be more like water than a Catherine wheel, going with the flow, nice and steady.
So I am trying to be kind and gentle with myself and not worry too much if I am not weaving away. I have some willow just about ready and may fiddle with a few of the sticks over the next few days and see what happens. In the mean time I have my 7 month old pup, Opal, to keep me more than busy.
Oh and thanks to the person who took the Catherine wheel image. I couldn’t find the persons name to credit them.
Posted .2018 is set to be an exciting year. I am already planning some great projects, some of which are in the pipe line and others confirmed. I will keep you up to date with projects as I get the go ahead on them.
I now have some new Jan- spring workshop dates at Cromford Via-Gellia. So if you fancy having a go then this is a great opportunity to learn a new skill. Click on the calendar to find the dates!
I am also pleased to say that I am also going to be running some workshops with ‘Zantium’ in Godfrey Hole near Wirksworth, Derbshire. Dates are throughout the year. More on that to come.
In July I shall be exhibiting at a new large woodland festival called the ‘Timber’ festival in the National Forest. It sounds amazing so check it out.
I just have a few more jobs for 2017 then I can take it easy for a few weeks. I intend to relax with my family and get very merry over the festive period.
Happy Christmas!!
With summer a distant memory and Autumn now in full swing, I am turning my attentions to the 4 swan commissions I have for kedleston hall. I have done some sketches, taken photos and had my armatures made, so now its time to weave the willow.
It’s always hard to start a project and this one has been no exception. I am like a Catherine wheel, slow to start then hard to stop! Just need lighting!
Posted .This little lady has been keeping me on my toes over the last couple of weeks, so not much weaving has been done.
Opal is my new work pal and will keeping me company at the studio. She is sooooooo cute but a little cheeky. Not sure it’s going to be easy training her to leave my sticks alone.
On Sat and Sun 24th and 25th June I am running a willow sculpture weekend at my studio at the Via-Gellia Mills, Cromford. There are still a few places left so if you fancy having ago at creating your own personalised creature then this is the perfect opportunity. You could make a bird, rabbit, pig or a simple four legged small animal. To book just click on the workshops page or get in touch.
I have spent the last week preparing a large willow bee for the Derbyshire Wildlife Trust stand at the RHS Chatsworth flower show in Derbyshire.
Come and visit their lovely stand from the 7-11th June. Its should be buzzing!!
I’ve added three more workshops dates to our calendar. Join me and explore the craft of willow.
Booking essential.
Taster Days
Willow Sculpture Weekends
Golden Days
Join me and explore the craft of willow. Learn some basic techniques used in sculpture and experience the feeling of well being that weaving brings. Enjoy a social and creative day and take home the pieces that you create.
Booking essential!
Taster Days
Willow Sculpture Weekends
Golden Days