About
I am an artist who works with translucent textiles influenced by the ancient tradition of bojagi, Korean wrapping cloths, and my practice is inspired by the changing light in the landscape. I lecture on the history of bojagi and teach workshops in both traditional and contemporary interpretations of Bojagi.
Working in translucent fabrics, ramie and silk organza combined with the narrow seaming and pinching techniques allows me to explore light passing through the overlapping layers of colour. The structure of seams creates a further linear dimension often revealed in the shadows that they cast.
While I may have an overall plan for a new piece of work, the method of construction is organic in nature. Constructed by hand or machine, traditional Korean seaming techniques anchor the work within the boundaries of my practice. Using hand dyed fabrics allows me to control the palette for each project.
Walking in the countryside can often be a starting point for a new piece of work. Evening walks on the Sussex Downs in mid-summer allow me to observe the effect of the fading light on the colours of the landscape.
Walking in moonlight is the inspiration behind my latest collection of work. In the night space, light and sound are experienced in a different way. To walk in moonlight and to hear nightingales singing is spine tinglingly exciting.
The translucent qualities of bojagi seem to me a perfect medium to express these fleeting moments. The Korean word bo means “wrapping happiness or fortune” and is expressed using colour and symbolism. In my works I try to achieve Cheon-ji-in which translates into “sky, earth and the harmony of human coexistence”. A traditional Korean value that chimes with the current concerns about the need to live and create work sustainably.
Exhibitions:
2017 The grey line, Knitting and Stitching Show, London, UK.
2018 The grey line Korean Bojagi Forum, Sole exhibitor Coex, Seoul, South Korea.
2019 Transparency and Transition Gallery, Festival of Quilts, Birmingham
2021 oQamoQa, Double Happiness Collaborative exhibition, Bukchon, Seoul, South Korea
2023 Australasian Quilt Convention, Melbourne, Australia
2023 Moon Rising, Colonnade House Gallery, Worthing, UK.
