My current textile practice has developed from a lengthy foundation in traditional patchwork. Beginning in my late twenties, quilting has been both a personal and professional journey, including ten years as the owner of a patchwork shop where I built and supported a local community of quilters, young and old. During that time, I honed my technical skills while guiding quilters at all stages of their journey, fostering an inclusive learning environment that nurtured confidence in creativity, skill development, and the courage to experiment. In this environment, I developed a passion for teaching and community-building, and I still continue to educate in the quilting and creative sewing world. Process, learning, and shared knowledge are central to my practice.
More recently, the shift toward art quilting has been supported by ongoing study through workshops and courses with a range of tutors. I am particularly interested in exploring pictorial realism, using fabric collage and the use of mixed media and thread to enhance the realistic appearance of a subject. I have developed a strong affinity for Australian Indigenous culture and am increasingly using fabrics by Indigenous designers. I am still in the early stages of experimenting with a variety of techniques and genres as I focus on expanding my creative voice while developing my own personal style. My love of precision and perfection is quite at odds with the freedom and flow of art quilts, and I am certainly finding some challenges in the transition between traditional and non-traditional quilting. This is a very exciting time of personal and creative growth.
Throughout this time of growth, I have retained my roots in education and community and am committed to contributing to the textile art world and supporting others as they find their own voice in their creative journey.
