Fibres and Fabrics Association Inc.

Wednesday 25 January 2012

2012-01-28T14:25:00.001+10:00

Hi, we're back meeting regularly on Wednesday's, here are some photos, the 'Bookies' group have had their first sample day and meeting to nut out what to do for the rest of the year. There has been the first ATC (artist trading card) swap for the year. This was a challenge using a beer coaster that was found at the pub where Bookies had their Christmas party luncheon last year. Unfortunately I don't have a whole coaster to show you. sorry... There are also some photos of some of the show and tell that was handed around.

Bookies members meeting

Meeting and general area..

Midas Touch postcard from Deb P. to Pam W.

Small white dollies made by Barb N.

Wearable art challenge by Suzanne c.

ATC's from a pub coaster. 1

ATC's from a pub coaster. 2

Backs of some of the ATC's.

Benefits of being a County Member with Fibers

2012-01-24T20:19:00.000+10:00

Benefitsof being a Country/International Member

Wouldyou like to be a 'Country' member of Fibres and Fabrics? What are thebenefits of being a member of this wonderful diverse group of Artisans?

Firstlyyou would receive either by email or snail mail our wonderfully informativenewsletter, listing the happenings at Possum Hollow (our current home at theTownsville Show Grounds) and other events happening at Fibers or with our manymembers.

Secondlyyou can contribute to our Postcard and ATC swaps. We also have otherchallenges, which you would be able to take part in.

Thirdlyyou would be able to enter your creations into our many exhibitions. Wehave several coming up this year, with the wearable art fashion parade inApril, and the Townsville Show in July and exhibitions at the Townsville Craftshow, and at our local libraries, museums and galleries.

Andlast but certainly not least, you are welcome to visit us on Wednesdays or anyof our many sub groups whilst you are visiting our wonderful city Townsville.Our sub groups are Embroidery, Patchwork, Spinning and Weaving, Creative Arts,Bookies, Sewing for Cancer and Fibres on Saturday.

Ifthis sounds great to you, then just email us at fibersandfabrics@hotmail.com forthe membership form, and pay your membership via PayPal, cheque or moneyorder. Our membership fee is only $20 (AU) a year.

ArleneWhite
Treasurer

Christmas "S" Party 2011

2011-12-08T12:54:00.010+10:00

This year's Christmas party was held at the Great Northern Hotel and a very fine venue it turned out to be!

It was cool and comfortable and the food was delicious.

Yummy!

Okay, not all the photos I took are flattering and some didn't come out at all, but should show that we had a whale of a time (oops should that be shark of a time, Beryl?)

The costumes were outstanding.

Clockwise from top left:
Statue of Liberty
Sqaure
Slayer
Santa's Little Helper.

Lto R top: Star Light Star Bright, Something!, Saint Birte.

L to R bottom: Scarecrow, Shabby Sheik, Sunbonnet Sue.

L to R top: Mrs Santa, Sucker, Snow White.

L to R bottom: Scout Mistress, Scholar, Shrub.

L to R top: Sewaholic, Silly!

L to R bottom: Swami, Serving Lady.

We swapped gifts with a twist this year. Just when you thought you'd received something you really liked someone could disconcertingly nick it off you!

Jessica donated a beautiful calendar done by the four Calendar Girls, which was won by Lyndal.

Val very cleverly guessed the correct number of pieces of fabric in the bottle.

Then came the costume parade accompanied by some very funny descriptions.

Sadie the Cleaning Lady

St Francis

Click on the words St Francis or Sadie the Cleaning Lady under their photos and hopefully you'll see a video!

And the winner was ....................////////////////////////////(drum roll) ..... the Shark.

Merry Christmas everyone. See you on the second Wednesday in January 2012.

Fibres and Fabrics Christmas Fair 2011

2011-12-05T08:11:00.001+10:00

Well another year has come and gone, why are they coming and going so quickly...... images of a bumper fair for Fibres, thanks to all the volunteers, 4TO for their advertising, and to everyone who supported an annual event..... Thank you, thank you, thank you.....

Arlene

The Maharajah's Garden

2011-12-04T14:34:00.001+10:00

We have had the pleasure of hosting the ATASDA travelling suitcase exhibition, Saffron. Our members had the opportunity to view the contents of the suitcasse at Wednesday's meeting after which the exhibition went to Pompom Rouge. On Wednesday 7th December Studio 2 will take over the suitcase. It's well worth having a look at the items which are beautifully executed in a variety of styles using many different techniques. The theme behind the works is The Maharajah's Garden which has given the textile artist's a rich pallette of colours and tectures in which to express themselves.

Bookies lunch, teddies and ATC's

2011-11-24T16:59:00.002+10:00

Ann, Pricey and one of one hundred teddies.

Lyndell's 10 day quilt

November ATC's

December ATC's

Bookies group enjoying lunch

2011-11-23T16:50:00.003+10:00

Our annual Christmas Craft Fair is coming up, as the flyer above shows. Entry is free. Please come along and join us for a fun and fabulous weekend..

Embroidery Christmas Lunch

2011-11-17T19:48:00.001+10:00

Today the Christmas lunch for the embroidery group was held at Jessica's place. A small gathering arrived with goodies in tow for a very friendly, informal and delicious lunch. Below are some photos, including the challenge pieces that were swapped.

Jessica and Arlene juice the oranges for the punch

Filling our plates with delicious treats

The swap. Top - Suzanne.
Middle row left to right - Pam, Arlene, Barbara.
Bottom row left to right - Veronica, Judy, Lyn.

Sue Brazier

2011-11-06T18:08:00.002+10:00

Thank you for agreeing to be interviewed, Sue.

As a member of Fibres and Fabrics, how do you define yourself, creatively? I am a frustrated craftsperson who would like to be more creative.

What do you enjoy doing most? I love embroidery and sewing.

Who would you say has inspired you more than anyone? An aunt who made beautiful things and taught me to embroider and crochet. Also my mother who taught me to sew.

Do you have a good workspace? I have a lovely big area with plenty of benches and cupboards and a bookshelf. Perfect!

Which 3 tools could you not live without? My sewing machine, thimble and point turner.

Do you keep a sketchbook or journal? No, I’m not creative enough to draw but I often write down ideas.

How do you overcome those blanks we all come up against at some time? Browse through books and magazines.

If cost wasn’t an issue, what avenues would you choose to explore to expand your skills? Attend every possible workshop or forum.

How do you balance your life? Pretty unbalanced – lots of play, not much work!!

That sounds like a really good balance to me!

What does your work mean to you? Satisfaction, peace and solace. It is like a therapy.

Creative Friday

2011-10-29T11:48:00.002+10:00

Hello, we had a keen group attend the first Creative Group Friday since the white exhibition. A demonstration was given by Deb on attaching fabric to aliminium foil with PVA glue, once dry this can then be used to create 3D shapes, which hold their shape. Some shapes are shown in one of the following photos.

There was also discussion and agreement to hold a picnic fashion parade, the title of which is 'Spirit of the North'. This will be held on April 21 2012. Fashions will be made from repurposed garments. Next Creative Group Friday will be a trip to a second hand shop and a lunch to celebrate Christmas.

Keen watchers of Deb demostrating how to apply PVA.

Smoothing the wrinkles of the fabric by hand.

Moya had a go too

Birtee showing how to roll a dry piece.

Some fan shapes in the process.

Moya O'Keeffe

2011-10-17T11:42:00.006+10:00

The fact that you’re a member of Fibres and Fabrics shows you are creative by nature. Define yourself – art/craft wise? Am I Creative??? Define myself – Have never really thought about doing this before, but here goes. Example – Marlene King Workshop where we worked with curves. Her quilt was flowing curves, very beautiful, but not me, so with her permission, I designed and made a dragon, with lots of flowing flames, tail and background etc. Example – Another workshop, on a wall hanging, subject Blue Wren; my wren was the local Red and black one. Result – I seem to be only ½ creative. I borrow techniques, but use them for my projects – or – am I just contrary???
Are you more comfortable working in one particular medium than most others?
Particular favourite? Painting, but I don’t consider myself good enough to show, and don’t have enough wall space to hang my daubs, and not enough friends I wish to alienate by gifting them with one. So have been working with fabric (quilts etc are easier to find homes for) and I can combine both paint and material, and if I mess up, the dogs don’t mind what they sleep on.

Are there any artists or crafters who, more than any others, have influenced you in your creative life and why?

Gwen Dillon, a folk art teacher, who taught and encouraged me to use her techniques, but doesn’t mind when I don’t do folk art. Margaret Dunn, who encouraged by example, though have yet to have a go at Stumpwork or Photography. Members of Fibres and Fabrics, though they probably don’t realise they are doing it.
Describe your workspace.

Having had my craft room moved 7 times, I now have my very own “Womb” as my husband calls it. It is large and airy, and I have filled (over filled) it to capacity. I am a hoarder and have fabric, dress and other, from years back, decades actually. I have my original Singer sewing machine, purchased when I was 15 – and it still works well – plus many others. It does, alas, also hold ‘stuff’ my children could not find room for in their homes. I have as assistants: 3 dogs, 1 dopey rooster and 3 Mallard ducks, who make it their business to make life unbearable for the aforementioned animals. Needless to say they are not really welcome (they are not potty trained like the others).
What 3 tools could you not live without?

Paint brush, sewing machine(s), companions (animals, although I wish they would not sit on machine footpedals) and husband – without which I would not have a “Womb”.
Do you keep a sketchbook or journal?

Should have started one about 50 years ago, but have one now and even try to keep it up to date. Unlike some friends, I cannot write and listen at workshops, so mine only contain work I have done, ideas of things I want to do and design ideas of things I would like to do.
We all share our knowledge at Fibres and Fabrics. Do you extend this in any way by participating in or teaching workshops?

I have mainly been a participant, though have given a number of workshops to a local craft group of which I am a member.
How do you inspire your creativity when you’re stuck?

Unstick creativity block??? Happens quite often. I first go to my fabric stash, then visit my library, have a cip of tea and talk it over with the dogs (not too much help there though) or as they say “phone a friend” or bring it up at a Fibres meeting, I suppose.
If cost wasn’t an issue, what avenues would you choose to explore to expand your skills?

If cost was not an object, I would visit art galleries, museums and go to any and all craft shows and do any available workshops that interest me.
How do you balance your life?

Balance? Who has balance? In percentages: 80% spent with craft interests, 19% spent with family, 1% with housework.
Has any of your work appeared, or is it going to appear, in a display or exhibition either collaboratively or alone? If so where and when?

Some of my work has been places in the local Community Centre, also some in a recent display at the Umbrella Studio with other Fibres members. I also display at Quilting Show and Tells.
What does your work mean to you?

Because of an accident my mobility has been much reduced and time spent designing, making and talking about crafts keeps me relatively sane and my brain active. Crafting also allows me to interact with people who enjoy the same interests.
Thank you, Moya. Lovely chatting to you!

Cardwell Show and Tell

2011-10-16T16:44:00.003+10:00

Cardwell earlier this year was one of a several townships along the north Queensland coast to be devastated by cyclone Yasi. Last weekend was a special event for the local community to get together and share some of their work that was not taken by the savage storm.

Several ladies from Fibers, the Burdekin, Carlyle Gardens and Bluewater groups attended this event. We had a wonderful Day, enjoying the gracious hospitality of the Cardwell Quilters. After such a horrible year, these ladies have certainly deserved this wonderful event. Many prizes were handed out, and Fiber, Burdekin and Bluewater ladies won a couple, with the major prize making it's way onto the Carlyle Bus. That wonderful multi coloured trolley being one of them.

I won the guessing competition (how many 6 inch squares were in the pickle container – I got within one, wow was I happy.)

I also took home one of the Dammit dolls; they were pre-made dolls that were on our tables when we arrived, and a bag of sewing notions to dress our dolls. There was also a verse, which you were allowed to add, change or re invent. I wish I had of kept their verse, but our table re invented ours….. The Dolls were then Auctioned off, (funds going to Juvenile diabetes) raising $198.70 (the 70 cents was all I had left after spending my money at the market place).. They also received $100 from Carlyle gardens ladies and they raised over $800 from the sale of tickets into the Quilt raffle.

Our dammit doll poem:
You've gone to your craft room
Iching to be stitching

You hear hubby in the kitchen
A screaming a bitching

Dammit you yell, Screaming and a shout.
Here Dear, Take my Dammit Doll, and slam it all about….

They had this wonderful cake made and their oldest member Maxine Millwood cut the cake.

Here is Maggie wither her quilt she named Inspirations after her time with Yasi.

And what we all enjoy - retail therapy......

Thank you all for an absolutely wonderful day.....

To view more photo's click here
Also if you want to send any donations for stash to the group, let me know and I will send you a contact address. All donations will be gratefully received.

Arlene

I'm no sane quilter, BUT....

2011-10-09T10:36:00.001+10:00

At Fibers and Fabrics Patchwork group last Thursday they were making a lovely swirl type table runner, that I just wanted to make. (don't know it's real name)

Now I don't do normal quilting, I'm a crazy patch girl, through and through, so when it came to working all this out I was way out of my comfort zone. I was amazed how quickly I picked up what had to be done. I even got my piece further than some of the 'sane quilters'.

First we had to choose 8 colours and then cut our fat quarters into strips, of various sizes. We then had to sew them all together running in sequence 1 to 8. Then we had to cut them again, using a 9 degree wedge. (All jargon if you ask me). I managed to do all this (except I miss one piece) thankfully I was the teachers pet I think, and she cut it out for me.

We then laid it out on the big table and starting from one of the smaller ends, numbered 1 to 25.

We had to sew each piece together and when we got to the middle start the second piece from the other end and then join the two pieces together. You think it looks OK, wait to ya see it sewn together.

I still have to put in the lining and the backing, but for my second time ever doing sane quilting, i think I did OK.

Will post in about a week, when I get some help putting it all together.

Here are the other ladies, Missing is our teacher (Gai is taking the photo), and Suzanne who had to leave early. This is taken with our pieces on the table, yes mine was done first, yippeeee....... All the work, and the colours were amazing, can't wait to see them all finished. Thanks so much Gai, I really enjoyed this workshop, an achievable piece of Patchwork my sister in law is gonna love. I'm gonna make myself a blue Xmas one.

L-R

Me, Joan, Kathy, Sue, Helen and Margaret

Thank you Gai for a wonderful day.
Arlene

Sue Davis

2011-10-02T19:30:00.003+10:00

The fact that you’re a member of Fibres and Fabrics shows you are creative by nature. Define yourself – art/craft wise? I have sewn since I was a teenager then started to make teddies and cloth dolls,, but after joining Fibres I have grown and love textiles and felting.

Are you more comfortable working in one particular medium than most others? I am more comfortable working with textiles and felt. I love all the colours and textures of fabrics and wools.

Are there any artists or crafters who, more than any others, have influenced you in your creative life and why? Years ago I used to make cloth dolls and I did a silk dyeing and machine embroidery workshop with Ken Smith and fell in love with free hand machine embroidery. I then joined Fibres and was given a lot of encouragement from Barb and attended a few forums and workshops and have made lots of friends there over the years I have tried lots of new things been involved in exhibitions and evolved more than I ever imagined.

Describe your workspace. I am lucky to have a whole room to use as my workspace but sometimes still spread out into my living room.

What tools could you not live without? My sewing machine, scissors and needles and thread.

Do you keep a sketchbook or journal? Not really but I do have a book I roughly sketch what I will be doing next.

We all share our knowledge at Fibres and Fabrics. Do you extend this in any way by participating in or teaching workshops? I love showing anything new I have found that works out well.

How do you inspire your creativity when you’re stuck? Have a break and work in my garden.

If cost wasn’t an issue, what avenues would you choose to explore to expand your skills? I would buy a camper van and travel round Austalia attending workshops and forums. I would also love to visit artists whose work I admire.

How do you balance your life? I do spend a lot of time with Fibres friends but have other friends to go to movies with and shopping. I also love reading, my animals and my garden.

Has any of your work appeared, or is it going to appear, in a display or exhibition either collaboratively or alone? If so where and when? I have had work in some Flying Art exhibitions and any Fibres have had over the last 6 years.

What does your work mean to you? Even though I get frustrated sometimes when something does not work, I cannot imagine not doing anything with textiles.
Thank you, Sue, for sharing your creative life with us.

ATC Swap.

2011-10-01T21:56:00.000+10:00

September's Artists' Trading Cards swap.

Thanks for the photo, Suzanne.

Can anyone name the creators?

Georgina Whitchurch

2011-09-19T07:00:00.018+10:00

The fact that you’re a member of Fibres and Fabrics shows you are creative by nature. Define yourself – art/craft wise? Enigmatic is the first word that comes to mind. An obscure riddle - it ways in the dictionary – others might say I’m very confused and don’t know what I want to do yet! I love variety and I love to blend crafts to get different results.

Are you more comfortable working in one particular medium than most others?

I work with most modalities that come under the banner of wool crafts and sewing / stitching but I probably do more machine sewing and knitting than any other at this stage. My stages vary depending on where I am living and what I am doing.

Are there any artists or crafters who, more than any others, have influenced you in your creative life and why?

· My paternal grandmother, taught me the fundamentals of sewing and knitting and how to use and read patterns.

· My mother, who was an established textile and design artist over 60 years ago, encouraged me through her teaching to create my own designs and patterns and take inspiration from nature and life.

· And all the people I have ever shared fibre and fabric fun times with. We are all students and teachers when we play together.

Describe your workspace.

Once upon a time - I had a dedicated ‘studio’ and it was great – I loved it and thought I would fall apart when I had to leave it - but I got over that and now have the whole house and I use it all. Drawers and cupboards are neat and orderly (I can mostly find what I am looking for when I want it). The tables are a different story - there are often many layers of different projects one on top of the other, on top of the other!

What 3 tools could you not live without?

My Mind - where all things are created.

Sewing machine and knitting needles - these are probably the most used tools that I possess other than my hands and fingers. I have survived without the machine and needles for short periods in the past and it was definitely a challenge not to be repeated too often.

The hands and fingers I am hoping to keep for ever and keep using for a long time.

Do you keep a sketchbook or journal?

Not an artistic one - but I do have frequent recurrences of written journals that are instrumental in keeping me focused and inspired. My creative journaling is in my thoughts so I do need to keep track of that place where I store mostly visual and tactile ideas.

We all share our knowledge at Fibres and Fabrics. Do you extend this in any way by participating in or teaching workshops?

I love to share experiences and knowledge with other interested parties and enjoy being an encourager for people wanting to have a go at something different. I taught basic dressmaking, knitting and crochet many years ago, also macramé, beading and felting. I conducted patchwork and quilting classes for several years in WA. In more recent years I have given licence to ‘traditional’ knitters to let go of control and create some truly amazingly ‘wild’ pieces for the ‘TREE’ and extended that challenge to the VERY traditional knitters of a small group in rural New Zealand to decorate street trees for their annual arts festival.

How do you inspire your creativity when you’re stuck?

I guess like most things in life – it is cyclical. I am happy to have time to devote to other aspects of life while the creativity has a rest, then when it’s ready to return it is usually well worth the wait. It makes me wonder though, where has it been? What did it see? Who did it visit? And what ideas has it brought back for me to play with?

If cost wasn’t an issue, what avenues would you choose to explore to expand your skills?

I would love to visit other cultures to work with, play with and join their fibres and fabrics groups for long periods to experience the differences as well as the similarities and to exchange methods, techniques, fun and friendship.

Places that interest me at this stage are starting right here in OZ – working with Aboriginal women who use natural dyes for grasses, more time in NZ to work with Maori women and their dedication to and use of Flax, Peru for their use of colour and weaving techniques, India also for their use of colour and silk waste and some parts of Africa for their unique pattern design. I could go on, but that will do for now. These are some of my retirement dreams.

How do you balance your life?

A bit like balancing the budget – sometimes I’m in the black and sometimes I have a blow-out! That’s life!

Has any of your work appeared, or is it going to appear, in a display or exhibition either collaboratively or alone? If so where and when?

· WAQA Annual Exhibition 2000 – first time entrant, beginners section, traditional quilt 1^st Prize (photographed)

· Pinnacles Gallery – 2008 – Threads of Habitat - artistic concept, direction and construction of the ‘Knitted Tree’

· Creative Fibre Annual Woolcraft Exhibition – NZ 2009 - knitted dolls.

o Presentation / lecture of Threads of Habitat with demonstration on ‘wild’ knitting and crochet used in the tree.

· Costume design and construction 2009, for a film and stage presentation at the annual International Science Fiction Convention - Melbourne 2010

· Wedding garment 2010. (for my daughter-in-law to be)

What does your work mean to you?

SANITY.

When the ability to create is as natural as breathing one would be ‘dead’ without it. That may sound harsh or macabre, but if I couldn’t do something, even a small postcard or piece of knitting in each week I would think I had died. I started knitting my own garments at the age of 8 or 9 and using my Grandmother’s electric sewing machine at age of 9. In my early teens I was making my own clothes from unpicked recycled clothes and without patterns. I made a complete wedding ensemble, bride and 3 brides maids dresses, at age 18 while working full time and studying. My own wedding dress featured a macramé overlay with high neck and yoke that I made with pearl crochet cotton and beads.

When I look at the list above, there are so many things that I have done that are not significant enough to list, but together make up the whole picture of who I am, what I do and why. And it is proving difficult to choose any singular item or event as one that may have given me the greatest feeling of achievement. All are so different in purpose, techniques, time frames and materials and the outcomes where also very different. I’m going to say the wedding garment for my son’s bride probably caused me the most anxiety. To be asked by her was both an honour and fearful challenge. If I stuffed up, she had my son as collateral. Miss Alice was and is very particular and knows exactly what she wants and how it should look. The concept of her outfit was in her head and we had to do some form of thought transplant – blood sweat and tears. Brain surgery would have been easier. We made it though! and even spent some time together doing the beading on the bolero jacket. My sense of achievement was realised when I saw her arrive.

I wonder what’s next . . . .

Thank you Georgie! That was a great conversation. Come back to us .....

Strand Ephemera 2011

2011-09-13T09:05:00.003+10:00

A walk along the Townsville Strand last week revealed a trail of entertaining treasures. A large number of strolling people could be seen peering up into the trees and pointing their cameras, not at a rare bird species, but at Fibres and Fabrics amusing entries, two of which are pictured below.

Perched like flocks of mischievous birds along branches, ragdolls brought back memories of a time when children were allowed to climb and play in trees freely and suffer the consequences!

Dot Wasley

2011-09-12T08:56:00.001+10:00

The fact that you’re a member of Fibres and Fabrics shows you are creative by nature. Define yourself – art/craft wise? Dabble in all sort of craft.

Are you more comfortable working in one particular medium than most others? Sewing- Card making – Scrapbooking.

Are there any artists or crafters who, more than any others, have influenced you in your creative life and why? No one.

Describe your workspace. Sewing room which is always untidy and the back deck.

What 3 tools could you not live without? Sewing Machine – Scissors - Needles.

Do you keep a sketchbook or journal? No.

We all share our knowledge at Fibres and Fabrics. Do you extend this in any way by participating in or teaching workshops? Share hints but no teaching.

How do you inspire your creativity when you’re stuck? Do something else.

If cost wasn’t an issue, what avenues would you choose to explore to expand your skills? Travel.

How do you balance your life? By being involved in many things.

Has any of your work appeared, or is it going to appear, in a display or exhibition either collaboratively or alone? If so where and when? No as I give most of it away.

What does your work mean to you? Happy interest and no pressure.

Lovely to get to know you a little better, Dot. Thank you. Sorry, no pictures but I don't have any. I'll add some in when I get some.

Sorry!

2011-09-07T10:40:00.000+10:00

Apologies for being a couple of weeks behind with the weekly interviews .......

Will kick off again this coming Monday.

Carol.

Alba Leucos Opening

2011-08-24T11:04:00.000+10:00

The opening of our very successful and distinctive exhibition was held on Sunday. Click here to see all the fun

Beryl Bull

2011-08-22T18:51:00.004+10:00

The fact that you’re a member of Fibres and Fabrics shows you are creative by nature. Define yourself – art/craft wise? I’ve always loved painting on canvas – nothing serious. I’ve always loved fabrics and blingy stuff. This, combined, has led me into an interest of cloth doll making and beyond, into fibres and fabrics.

Beryl's own pattern Citrus Chique 2009

Are you more comfortable working in one particular medium than most others? No – I am now trying it all – but it did take me a while to experiment away from bought commercial fabrics, like about 45 years! I’m finding paint, paper and glues creeping into my thoughts at the moment, too.

Are there any artists or crafters who, more than any others, have influenced you in your creative life and why? Yep – Barb Neunhoffer (local) – she has shown me how to experiment with my sewing machine to have fun and she always shares her skills. And Janet Banks has been an influence with her skills at journalism and adding zing to an ordinary book, preloved or hand created.

Describe your workspace. Quite organised and tidy. I work in a small room so I need objects organised around me for easy access. I like to know where the items are stored/packed so I don’t waste time searching.

What 3 tools could you not live without? Acrylic paint, sewing machine, pens and pencils.

Do you keep a sketchbook or journal? No. I did try once. Just have fun experimenting and forgetting how I created it now!

Madame Butterfly sold in 2006

We all share our knowledge at Fibres and Fabrics. Do you extend this in any way by participating in or teaching workshops? Arrr – did teach a fabric painting workshop once, but am keen to participate in anything going.

How do you inspire your creativity when you’re stuck? I’ll have a flick through a magazine or book from Fibres’ Library. Or lay awake all night thinking up ideas. I’m the Goddess of Dreamland!

If cost wasn’t an issue, what avenues would you choose to explore to expand your skills? Perhaps go to more workshops that are provided around the country by International and Australian tutors.

How do you balance your life? I don’t put much thought into life really, as long as I’m happy, healthy and fit, I let things fall into place.

Book cover of created paper fabric

Have you, or do you intend to, exhibit any of your work, either collaboratively or alone? If so where and when? I’m happy to exhibit my work wherever, but mainly as “show and tell” type displays. I have done and will continue to do any collaborative works with Fibres and Fabrics Association.

What does your work mean to you? It makes me feel blessed that I have the skills to produce an art piece of some sort. Art and craft work is calming, stimulating and an outlet to express myself.

Well, if that's just an entree to what you'll be doing as you keep "trying it all", we have some treats still to look forward to, Beryl.

Veronica Sands

2011-08-14T21:39:00.000+10:00

The fact that you’re a member of Fibres and Fabrics shows you are creative by nature. Define yourself – art/craft wise? I would say more textile - cottons, wool - knitting, crochet, cross stitch and more recently Bobbin Lace.

Are you more comfortable working in one particular medium than most others? Yes, just the ones mentioned not fond in getting stuck up, no glue junky here. The three photo's I have attached are of an "Angel" cross stitch I finished a couple of Years ago and of a cross stitch "Frog Pile" and Bobbin Lace that I am working on now.

Are there any artists or crafters who, more than any others, have influenced you in your creative life and why? My father was always making things and as a child I use to sit in his work shop and watch him turn out some beautiful lamp shade stands and fruit bowls on his lathe then mum would make the shades. More recent, my sister Margaret has been working on a beautiful Bobbin Lace piece and on my trip to Perth in March she taught me how to do it.

Describe your workspace. I have a spare room with a trestle table for my cross stitch and sewing and a drafts table for my Bobbin Lace.

What 3 tools could you not live without? I guess they would be my frames I work with makes working the cross stitch easier, cottons and needles and also my draft table its great to be able to adjust the height and slant of the table.

Do you keep a sketchbook or journal? No, not now. I use to and can see the value in having a record of what I have made so it will be added to my list of things to do.

We all share our knowledge at Fibres and Fabrics. Do you extend this in any way by participating in or teaching workshops? No not now. When I was working in Aged Care both in Nursing Homes and the Respite Centre I taught a lot of different crafts.

How do you inspire your creativity when you’re stuck? I like to look through craft books and craft shops.

If cost wasn’t an issue, what avenues would you choose to explore to expand your skills? Attend work shops on what interests me.

How do you balance your life? I try to do a half hour of exercise each day and I enjoy listening to music.

Has any of your work appeared, or is it going to appear, in a display or exhibition either collaboratively or alone? If so where and when? No, not as yet

What does your work mean to you? A lot, I like and need to be doing something with my hands and I enjoy seeing a project taking shape.

Thank you Veronica for giving us this insight into your work.

Our One and Only Dinie Gaemers

2011-08-08T08:37:00.001+10:00

You’ve been a member of Fibres and Fabrics pretty much from the association’s inception, haven’t you? Joined in 1976.

You’ve filled many valued roles within the group. Tell us about your present role? My present role is of being the Archivist and Historian. I offered to compile Fibres’ first 25 years of History in 1998, for which I had to compile the archival information first and I have been doing that since. I also wrote the following 10 years of history.

I know you’re very creative. Can you define yourself – art/craft wise? For daily fibre activities I lean towards practical articles that can be used, but extend myself for Exhibition entries. I used originally the technique of knotting, Macramé, for this purpose, which was followed very closely by coiled basketry and hand sewn hexagon patchwork.

Are you more comfortable working in one particular medium than most others? I like most of the Fibre techniques, but I am definitely not a fine embroiderer, embellisher or dyer.

Are there any artists or crafters who, more than any others, have influenced you in your creative life and why? Not really.
Describe your workspace. I use the spare room for storing things, use the dining room table a lot and usually work anywhere where I can sit comfortably.

What 3 tools could you not live without? Above all the tools I use, the most precious one is my hands.

Do you keep a sketchbook or journal? No.

We all share our knowledge at Fibres and Fabrics. Do you extend this in any way by participating in or teaching workshops? I have participated in many early workshops, and have taken my expertise to members of the group and also to the wider community e.g. friends, youngsters and worked a number of years with physically handicapped young people, which was a very rewarding time.

How do you inspire your creativity when you’re stuck? Usually hang it up on the wall or leave it somewhere to be seen.

If cost wasn’t an issue, what avenues would you choose to explore to expand your skills? Not important to me anymore.
How do you balance your life? Life balances itself.

Have you, or do you intend to, exhibit any of your work, either collaboratively or alone? If so where and when? Have exhibited in the Fibres’ exhibition ever since 1976 and plan to continue. Have exhibited nationally in the early years. The last few years collaboration has been introduced to the group with a most successful exhibition “Threads of Habitat’ and “Alba leucos” exhibition, presently being constructed.

What does your work mean to you. Love it!

Thank you for talking to us, Dinie. Your energy, enthusiasm and creativity are an inspiriation to us all.

Alba leucos

2011-08-05T08:19:00.000+10:00

Fibres and Fabrics Take up Residence.

2011-08-04T12:29:00.003+10:00

Wednesday, 3rd August 2011, and Fibres and Fabrics meet in their new home for the first time. Lots of helping hands went along to unpack and the library, under Birte's tender direction, is looking quite at home in the cold room. Members enjoyed the novelty of staying at their tables and not having to move for the meeting. Fiberians are flexible and adaptable and will make the most of every given challange and it show! May our stay in the shed be happy, inspiring and welcoming to all.

And here we have the Possum Palace. Is that a royal blue velvet curtain I see? In Annette's words "it's where the resident possum sleeps, he was there yesterday but up a bit higher from the bulge in the bottom of the blue fabric. Not sure what the consensus is on him, but if he goes another will move in, so maybe better the one we know than the one we don't.. lol.." Perhaps we should run a competition to give him (let's hope it's a him and not a pregnant her) a name and just adopt him. Leave your suggestions in the comments below. (I've adjusted the settings so that it's easier to leave comments - give it a try?)

Marlene King

2011-08-01T08:30:00.003+10:00

We are very honoured to have you as a member of Fibres and Fabrics! For our readers can you define yourself – art/craft wise?

I would define myself as a textile artist/quilter. Over the years I have tried many crafts. The main ones of these would be potting and spinning and weaving. I have a Diploma in Hand weaving, from Launceston TAFE. After gaining this I had my studio open to the public for over 10 years, during which time I wove the fabric and made garments up, and these were sold to many overseas countries.

Are you more comfortable working in one particular medium than most others?

My medium is textiles, be it fibre or fabric, either cotton, wool or silk.

Are there any artists or crafters who, more than any others, have influenced you in your creative life and why?

In my time as a quilter, Gloria Loughman has influenced me more than anyone else. Before I started quilting I had seen Gloria’s work and was entranced by it.

Describe your workspace.

In one word a shambles! My work space is small now, the smallest room in the house, as opposed to a purpose built studio when I was weaving.

What 3 tools could you not live without?

My sewing machine... I get withdrawal symptoms if I spend more than a few days without using it. Also the rotary cutter and scissors. The iron is also an important part of my working life.

Do you keep a sketchbook or journal?

Yes, but I contribute to it and also use it in fits and starts.

We all share our knowledge at Fibres and Fabrics and you have been very generous in this area. Do you extend this in any way by teaching other workshops?

Over the past years I have done many workshops in both QLD and Tas, but now it is only the occasional fun day to help others in their creativity.

How do you inspire your creativity when you’re stuck?
I put the article on the design wall, and go on with something else, and usually an idea comes within a week and I think why didn’t I think of that before!

If cost wasn’t an issue, what avenues would you choose to explore?

I would like to explore textile art further, but place of abode as well as a diminishing memory is a problem.

How do you balance your life?

The balance in my life is heavily unbalanced by the time I spend in the sewing room, but I like to read and also garden.

Your work has appeared in more displays or exhibitions than it’s possible to list. Do you have any work coming up for exhibition in the near future? If so where and when?

I have cut competition work down to a minimum, and this year a lot of time will be spent on a Wedding Quilt for my granddaughter, and also making her bridal gown, but I have an exhibition booked for Oct-Nov 2012 at a local gallery.

What does your work mean to you?

A sense of fulfilment. I like to set myself a challenge, and accomplish it the best I am able.

What a talented lady! Wonderful to get to know a bit more about you. Thank you.

Farewell Farmhouse

2011-07-28T18:40:00.001+10:00

Wednesday 27th July 2011 marked the last meeting of Fibres and Fabrics at the Historical Farmhouse.

Suzanne, Pam and their band of stalwart workers have sorted and packed, cleaned the old and the new, organised the removalists and ..... hey presto! Well done ladies! You've done so well.

The next meeting will begin an interim era in a shed at the Showgrounds. Watch this space for pictures of the new location.

Margaret Wretham

2011-07-25T07:00:00.001+10:00

As a long time member of Fibres and Fabrics you are recognised to be talented and creative. How do you define yourself – art/craft wise? A mixed media textile artist with a passion for silk painting and recycled wearable art.

Are you more comfortable working in one particular medium than most others? Love playing with silk exploring arashi shibori, recycling found objects.

Are there any artists or crafters who, more than any others, have influenced you in your creative life and why? Ken Smith started my love of silk, Patricia Black with her arashi shibori silk techniques.

Describe your workspace. Work from my garage generally where my steamer frames and dyes live.

What 3 tools could you not live without? Silk steamer, scissors, hot glue gun.

Do you keep a sketchbook or journal? From time to time.

We all share our knowledge at Fibres and Fabrics. Do you extend this in any way by participating in or teaching workshops? Have given various workshops in silk painting and art books.

How do you inspire your creativity when you’re stuck? Talk to Jackie Elmore on the tablelands or go walking on a beach collecting things.

If cost wasn’t an issue, what avenues would you choose to explore to expand your skills? I would fly to Italy and spend two weeks with Patricia Black playing with silk.

How do you balance your life? Family, friends, swimming, beach, baking cup cakes for Ronald McDonald House.

I know we can expect an amazing piece of creativity from you in the coming Alba Leucos exhibition at Umbrella Studio in August. Has any of your other work appeared, or is it going to appear, in a display or exhibition either collaboratively or alone? If so where and when? Wearable art pieces at Hobart Art on Legs in July, Pieces in an exhibition at Perc Tucker Gallery with 12 artists choosing to paint portrait of seniors.

What does your work mean to you? My work is the expression of my creative imagination that has to emerge . My work is my relaxation, comes from my spirit, and is my love of life.

End of an Era.

2011-07-20T21:30:00.001+10:00

An era of Fibres and Fabrics is being packed up into boxes for the move to temporary accommodation in a shed at the Show grounds. Mixed feelings abound! The Farmhouse in Castling Street, one of the Historic buildings, has been home to Fibres and Fabrics for nearly a quarter of a century and holds lots of memories for members. But the future looks exciting with the City Council having allocated the group land on which to build as soon as sufficient funds have been raised. This is a huge challenge facing Fiberians, which they will no doubt meet head on.

Let the Show Begin!

2011-07-18T09:53:00.003+10:00

The Craft and Sewing Show was thoroughly enjoyed by our members. To see a slideshow of our participation please click this link.

The winner of the quilt raffle, drawn at the Craft and Sewing Fair, Townsville Entertainment Centre, on Sunday 17 July was L. Doring, Townsville, ticket No. 913580.

Judy Hunter in Brief.

2011-07-18T07:00:00.000+10:00

You’ve been a valued member of Fibres and Fabrics since it was founded which indicates that you have always been a creative person. Can you define yourself – art/craft wise? I am not really creative. I am much more of a technician but very interested in a wide range of arts and crafts.

Are you more comfortable working in one particular medium than most others? Yes probably patchwork and cross stitch.

Are there any artists or crafters who, more than any others, have influenced you in your creative life and why? No one individual who stands out. I have learned from many tutors. Maybe Pauling Roberts from Toowoomba.

Describe your workspace. Cluttered. The back bedroom which needs to be cleared if we have too many people come to stay.

What 3 tools could you not live without? Probably scissors a needle and some thread.

Do you keep a sketchbook or journal? No, I take photos of projects when completed.

We all share our knowledge at Fibres and Fabrics. Do you extend this in any way by participating in or teaching workshops? I participate.

How do you inspire your creativity when you’re stuck? Usually by starting a new project and leaving another UFO.

If cost wasn’t an issue, what avenues would you choose to explore to expand your skills? I see it rather as time as an issue. It is so easy to become overloaded when you are retired.

How do you balance your life? Badly. Always too much to do and too little time.

Has any of your work appeared, or is it going to appear, in a display or exhibition either collaboratively or alone? If so where and when? Only in Fibres exhibitions.

What does your work mean to you? I feel a sense of achievement when I complete a project.

All Set Up!

2011-07-14T07:36:00.001+10:00

Well, Fibres and Fabrics is all set up and ready for the Craft and Sewing Show 2011!

Under Barb's guidance the members have the setting up of the display down pat and it's looking good. There's a really gorgeous quilt being raffled this year. The proceeds will be added to our funds for relocating, something which is imminent. The knitting table where those attending the show can rest their legs and sit and knit, or learn to knit if they don't know how, is ready and waiting. Their efforts will contribute to the teddies being made for Backpacks 4 Aussie Kids project. Fibres and Fabrics love to be involved in charity work.

The display this year is really vibrant and interesting. The various skills of our members have been artistically combined to showcase the group's diverseness.Hope you'll come along!

Free Tickets to the Townsville Sewing and Craft Show all taken!

2011-07-12T18:58:00.002+10:00

All four of the free tickets for the show have been claimed. Hope everyone who attends the show has a wonderful time.

Don't Forget - Townsville Craft and Sewing Show - 14 - 17 July 2011 : FREE TICKETS!!!!

2011-07-11T20:17:00.000+10:00

It's only a matter of days until one of the biggest events of the Townsville craft and sewing community's year takes place. Besides all the other delights of the show, Fibres and Fabrics will be putting on a magnificent display of the work their members have completed since the last Expertise Events Show. As our name implies, the Fibres and Fabrics group work in every sort of fibre and fabric, using a wide range of techniques. Our display will exhibit the whole spectrum of our members’ skills including altered boxes by our paper artists, embroidered cards by the embroiderers, quilt-as-you-go by the patchworkers, felted bags and hats by the felters, spinning and weaving, a combination of techniques to form creative art, a hint of what the sewers do for charity, and a corner in which the public may relax and knit beanies for the charitable Backpacks 4 Aussie Kids project. Click on the name to take a look at the project in detail.

AND

We have a special treat for the first four people who leave a comment on this particular blog post! You will receive a FREE TICKET to attend the show. Please leave your comment, including an identity and then, privately, send me an email to jungleburra@gmail.com containing that identity and your contact details so that I can get the ticket to you.

A Peep into the Creative Life of Linda Stubberfield.

2011-07-10T19:00:00.012+10:00

As a creative member of Fibres and Fabrics how would you describe yourself – art/craft wise? Fabric and paper crafts-person would be a good description. I am foremost a dressmaker/sewer, and hand "fancy worker". I have done quilting, freestyle machine embroidery and related skills, and combining them to create fibre-art pieces.

Are you more comfortable working in one particular medium than most others? Fabric is my favourite medium, though paper comes a close second. I often find ways to combine the two.

Linda's design quilt
Champion Townsville Show

Are there any artists or crafters who, more than any others, have influenced you in your creative life and why? My female relatives, for showing me that sewing is a natural part of life. My Home Science teachers at school, who taught me that some things could be done differently to how my mother did it! Art-wise, Diane Johnstone taught me about colour and fine appliqué, and from that I had the confidence to put my thoughts into reality. The people who ran Bernina Club, which I attended for years. Machine skills advanced so much in those days. And the Fibres and Fabrics ladies, who are an excellent example of artists who are not afraid to combine different skills to make a wonderful art piece. Also the many authors who took the time to write books which I read avidly to advance my knowledge of crochet, knitting, beadwork, feltwork, fine embroidery, beadwork, cardmaking and bookmaking.

Describe your workspace. In the spare bedroom is my sewing table which was made for my Mum. It has lovely maple veneer on the sides and door fronts, and silky-oak other smaller pieces. It was made by a very good Italian craftsman in Innisfail for her. It always has the sewing machine set up and, if it's not in use, it's covered with a faded patchwork cover. There is another table with storage cartons under it, two sets of drawers, and a built-in wardrobe. They are all full of finished and unfinished works, as well as the materials to create more. I have dolls and teddies watching me from one corner, and a wall-hanging above my stereo, which is very important for music and audio-books that I play while working.

What 3 tools could you not live without? My sewing machine, scissors and needles.

Do you keep a sketchbook or journal? Not regularly. I have a lot of samples of my past efforts, which I am putting into albums and specially made boxes, plus numerous photo albums.

We all share our knowledge at Fibres and Fabrics. Do you extend this in any way by participating in or teaching workshops? Yes, I attended Quilt Experience weekends when they were held in Townsville, for eight years, with some excellent tutors. Also visiting tutors arranged by Flying Arts. At F & F I've taught one or two card-making workshops each year, and have attended many workshops where the tips and ideas flow thick and fast.

Patchwork Child's Vest and Skirt
1st prize Townsville Show

How do you inspire your creativity when you’re stuck? I read books on the subject. I'm not really stuck for ideas, just the way to interpret them. My ideas will continue for as long as I live, I think.

If cost wasn’t an issue, what avenues would you choose to explore to expand your skills? I'd travel Australia and the world to see exhibitions and museums displaying inspiring work. I read and watch on TV everything I can which pertains to art and craft, especially fabric arts.

How do you balance your life? I love family, music, nature, and photographing anything that interests me, as well as the sewing and craft.

Has any of your work appeared, or is it going to appear, in a display or exhibition either collaboratively or alone? If so where and when? I showed my work at the Townsville Show for many years, and entered Quilt shows in Townsville and Brisbane. I have also participated in exhibitions put on by Fibres and Fabrics at the Perc Tucker Gallery, Riverway, and the yearly Craft Shows at the Entertainment Centre.

What does your work mean to you? It means everything to me. With my craft I never have an unoccupied moment, and that's how I like it. It satisfies my love and appreciation of lovely fabrics, shiny things like beads, and good work.

Thank you Linda for sharing your craft life with us.

Craft and Sewing Show - Entertainment Centre 14 - 17 July

2011-07-08T12:52:00.000+10:00

All challenge pieces will be displayed

Embroidery – embellished floral fabric

Bookies – Altered Box and ATCs

Fibres on Saturday - Assorted unspun wool

Please bring in 5 or 6 of your favourite items that you have made in the last 12 months for selection. Space will determine the number of items shown.

Please print a label on white printer paper - font style – Arial font size 14 Lines centred for each item to be displayed. If you do not have a computer please ask a friend to do this for you.

Example:

Janet Banks

Silent Listen

Altered Box Challenge

All items are to be delivered to the Entertainment Centre before 9am on Wednesday 13 July. Please ensure you nominate someone else to be responsible for your work to be delivered and picked up on Sunday 17 July if you are unable to do so.

This year work will be in a mixed display rather than segregated into individual groupings such as Bookies Table. It is hoped that this will encourage the public to wander.

During the four days of the fair please wear your name badge and Fibres scarf – White or Cream tops and dark bottoms always look professional.

On setup day 13 July all helpers are required to wear closed in shoes and a safety vest (some are available at Fibres)

Any questions about the above please talk to Carol McG, Barb N, Janet B.

A Glimpse of Birte Muller

2011-07-04T07:00:00.027+10:00

The fact that you’re a Life Member of Fibres and Fabrics shows you have a long term relationship with creativity! Define yourself – art/craft wise? When I was a little girl my father taught me to use a hammer and a sharp knife and my mother a needle and it has been galloping ever since.

Are you more comfortable working in one particular medium than most others? No! I have been (comfortable) almost at anything (perhaps except lace making.)

Are there any artists or crafters who, more than any others, have influenced you in your creative life and why? When I came to F and F I was in my Patchwork period (which had lasted several years) but then Kenneth Smith came and gave workshops on silk painting and machine embroidery and I was lost to the Patchwork world and I threw myself into many different crafts. Some years later Adéle Outteridge introduced me to the wonders of bookmaking and I'm still working mainly with paper.

Describe your workspace. As I live alone I can do what I want, so I have my workspace in the lounge room which has been moved to a bedroom. Though it is big it is rather chaotic as I'm always working on at least 3 different things at a time.

What 3 tools could you not live without? Colour and colour and colour.

Do you keep a sketchbook or journal? Not a journal but I have several sketchbooks which also contain tricks of the trade and samples from workshops.

We all share our knowledge at Fibres and Fabrics. Do you extend this in any way by participating in or teaching workshops? I have participated in many workshops over the years and I have also given a few, mainly in F and F on bookbinding.

How do you inspire your creativity when you’re stuck? Look at other people's work.

If cost wasn’t an issue, what avenues would you choose to explore to expand your skills? Go overseas and see what other nations do.

How do you balance your life? That is a difficult Q. What is balance? But I think if I wouldn't get my Dry Martini before dinner I would certainly be off balance.

Has any of your work appeared, or is it going to appear, in a display or exhibition either collaboratively or alone? If so where and when? I have shown my work in many of F and F's exhibitions.

What does your work mean to you? Everything.

Thank you, Birte. Your sense of humour is as dry as your Martini!

Having a chat to Margaret Dunn

2011-06-27T07:00:00.024+10:00

You’ve contributed so much to Fibres and Fabrics over the years, including taking on the role of President for a term and taking on the mammoth task of relocating the group to new premise. This is an undertaking you’ve pursued with tenacity and determination against all odds. I believe your labours have recently borne fruit. What are your goals now, in this area? A great part of my life in the past nine years or so has been working towards finding a new home for Fibres and Fabrics. My only hope is that we will be able to build our own home where we will be able to hold meetings, workshops and exhibitions. As we have been granted land to build on or relocate to, I am looking forward to members as well as our supporters to contribute to the Relocation Fund to help Fibres and Fabrics achieve this goal. I have also found that the members are great givers of time, material and talents to support many and varied projects for needy causes. Fibres and Fabrics is a wonderful association that needs your support.

Can you define yourself – art/craft wise? I find it hard to define myself as I really have a leaning to oil painting. Since joining Fibres and Fabrics as a spinner and knitter and painter, I have tried to express the way I can in oils to using material or threads, either by hand or with free machining. I have been a knitter since a very young child. My grandmother who lived with us all my single life and my mother both were very good knitters and crocheters. My mum being a dressmaker by trade, my sister and I have been taught knitting etc. and have always knitted from a very early age. I think I knitted my first twin set in grade six. When my daughter was taught how to spin in grade 5 it was on the condition I learnt as well. Spinning has proved to be a wonderful and relaxing pastime. I enjoy stump work, cross stitch, as well as book making, felting, patchwork and quilting. All of these latter interests happened because of joining the wonderful organization of Fibres.

Are you more comfortable working in one particular medium than most others? I began as a small child sitting on the floor with my back against my parent’s radiogram (a large piece of furniture) listening to music and drawing. I would draw in shadings of black and white with a lead pencil. I loved colours but found I could express myself much better in shades of black and white. At about the age of eleven I was being treated by a Chiropractor/Osteopath who was a wonderful man and an exceptional artist with oil paints. Richard Hertzog became my lifelong friend and later in my life asked me to study with him. I was unable to accept this offer primarily since I was a single mother of three. At this time my friend suggested to stop only using black and white lead pencils and introduced me to oils. This I will always thank him for. After his passing at the age of 84 I took it upon myself to follow in his footsteps and portray in oils the beauty of Australia as we both saw it.

Are there any artists or crafters who, more than any others, have influenced you in your creative life and why? I have mentioned in the previous question that Richard Hertzog was an influence with my painting. On shifting to Townsville, having workshops with Ken Smith with machining, Judy Stevenson with stump-work. During our visit to The Shetland Island I was inspired to spin one ply wool. Ricky Tims, with the creative use of colours, using materials, and Alison Withers Painting with Freestyle Machine Embroidery. I now am using this knowledge to translate my photos into a thread painting.

Describe your workspace. My workplace has expanded over the years. It started off sitting on the floor in my parents lounge room to sitting in a warm and quiet place by myself. Since being in Townsville we have extended our home several times that is situated in an acre of garden. Now I am so lucky to have my own studio facing out into the garden with birds and wallabies. Though, my husband does call our whole home my workplace.

What 3 tools could you not live without? I would hate to do without my camera, my propelling pencil and some paper, any white paper will do. I have been known to sit at a golf club dining room in Ireland and sketch the wonderful stone crofters cottage on the other side of the green using my napkin as I didn’t have my trusty camera by my side, just this once. I would like to add a 4^th and that is a good book to read.

Do you keep a sketchbook or journal? I started keeping a journal when I first attended workshops after joining Fibres & Fabrics. These have been a place where I kept notes, sketches and photos of the different workshops I attended. I was often laughed at for all the writing I would do during a workshop but they have proved to be a wonderful source for a memory that sometime lets me down. I have also extended my sketchbook journaling to our trips overseas.

We all share our knowledge at Fibres and Fabrics. Do you extend this in any way by participating in or teaching workshops? I have always tried to attend different workshops we have had over the years at Fibres as well as Quilt Experience held in Townsville. Yes I have passed on some of the things I learned over the years with workshops to new members such as quilt as you go shoulder bag, a pocket book bookies workshop, and recently flip and sew method of patchwork which could be used from a cushion to a full queen size quilt.

How do you inspire your creativity when you’re stuck? When stuck I resort to reading a novel far removed from craft or sewing and just rest my mind. More often than not something will always pop into my creative mind and set me off again.

If cost wasn’t an issue, what avenues would you choose to explore to expand your skills? I would invest in a time machine – there is never enough of this and I haven’t found the shop you can buy it in. I think when I am fully enthralled with being creative I always run out of the most important commodity, which is time.

How do you balance your life? My wonderful husband and much-loved cat constantly remind me of the basic needs of life with their support and love.

Has any of your work appeared, or is it going to appear, in a display or exhibition either collaboratively or alone? If so where and when? I have had some of my work exhibited. Two of my oil paintings won first place at the Ceduna Show then hung a gallery in Perth. Other paintings have hung in a gallery on Magnetic Island. I have had two of my picture quilts in competitions; one being awarded Highly Commended and with the other I was fortunate to win first prize. I have also exhibited in an exhibition at the Pinnacles Gallery called the ‘Fabric of the River’ and the bookies exhibition of ‘Altered Books’ held in the Umbrella Studio. I hope one day to have my own exhibition of works.

What does your work mean to you? Expressing of my feelings and experiences using material, thread, or paint has and will always be very important to me. The one wish I have is to live long enough and be healthy enough to continue along this long path that has no end.

Well, I don't know about you, but I really enjoyed chatting with Margaret. Thank you!

Bookies - Stamping Fun

2011-06-23T17:57:00.001+10:00

On Wednesday at Fibres it was Bookies time and as usualthere was lots of fun and laughter. Manythanks to Annette for showing us some fun ways to create stamps and the novel idea of simple everyday objects that can be used as stamps. We will no longer look at all those peskybits of packaging in quite the same way.

Below are this month's Artist Trading Cards

Top L to R: Suzanne C. Barb N.

Middle L to R: Sue D. Pam W. Di L.

Bottom L to R: Birte M. Annette S. Beryl B. Sharyn H.

Things You Might Not Have Known About Sharyn Howlum!

2011-06-20T07:00:00.003+10:00

The fact that you’re a member of Fibres and Fabrics shows you are creative by nature. Define yourself – art/craft wise? At the moment, I'm concentrating on finishing the candlewicked quilt cover for my son and daughter-in-law. Only 4 more blocks to go. I have participated in several classes at TAFE throughout the years e.g. leatherwork, copperwork, quilting, pottery; and am always open to learning new skills.

Are you more comfortable working in one particular medium than most others? I'm probably more comfortable with crafts that use sewing. There is less mess and you can stop and start easily.

Are there any artists or crafters who, more than any others, have influenced you in your creative life and why? My mother and aunts were always making something as well as being good cooks. I remember the knitting, crocheting, sewing, tatting. Mum also had hat blocks that I wish I'd kept.

Describe your workspace. I work in the lounge or at the kitchen table. The kids' rooms are slowly filling with the excess, as they have left home.

What 3 tools could you not live without? My scissors, needle and thread.

Do you keep a sketchbook or journal? I use an old ruled pad for ideas, especially after joining the postcard group at F&F.

We all share our knowledge at Fibres and Fabrics. Do you extend this in any way by participating in or teaching workshops?At the moment, I don't think my skills are advanced enough for teaching but I'm enjoying learning new skills through participating in workshops e.g. felting, the bookies group. The other members have so much knowledge and experience and are so enthusiastic!

How do you inspire your creativity when you’re stuck? I usually leave the item and come back to it when I have inspiration.

If cost wasn’t an issue, what avenues would you choose to explore to expand your skills? I would like to do more drawing and painting classes and wouldn't it be wonderful to have them in Paris or Venice.

How do you balance your life? I don't know how balanced my life is but I also participate in tap dancing and tai chi classes, volunteer at Reef HQ, am learning to play golf and like travelling, especially to visit the 5 month old grandson.

I was a Madam in the local amateur production of "Miss Saigon".

Has any of your work appeared, or is it going to appear, in a display or exhibition either collaboratively or alone? If so where and when? No, only the F&F book display at the library and candlewicked quilt cover at the Show and Tell.

What does your work mean to you? It is satisfying to create and finish an item. I also like the social interaction at F&F.

Thank you Sharyn. Hope you get to Paris and Venice for drawing and painting lessons!

Annual Meeting with Those Across the Sea!

2011-06-18T13:45:00.003+10:00

Fiberians took the ferry across to Magnetic Island on Wednesday 15th June for the annual get together with the island craft group. It was their turn this year to host us.

Annette reports "It was a lovely day, too much food and talking as per normal. There were some interesting works being done by the Magnetic ladies, an amazing scarf that they have found out about. You can buy the 'wool' from Lincraft apparently and it comes with the pattern on the wrapper. Pretty amazing looking scarf.." Thank you for the photo, Annette.

Del, who is visiting Townsville from the Sunshine Coast, went along and said that she was very impressed by the number of charitable organisations which the Island group support, that the food was (as usual) sumptuous and the ladies very welcoming.

Sounds like a wonderful day was enjoyed by everyone.

The Hidden Depths of Joan Brown!

2011-06-13T07:00:00.002+10:00

The fact that you’re a member of Fibres and Fabrics shows you are creative by nature. Define yourself – art/craft wise? I am still in the early days of exploring what I really want to do. My main love at present is patchwork/making quilts and this is taking time as it is still early days for me. I like to explore other craft activities, when time permits.(Photo to the left shows Joan's quilt made using strip-pieced water colour merger.)

Are you more comfortable working in one particular medium than most others? I prefer to work with fabric –mixing colours and shapes to create an enjoyable piece of work.

Are there any artists or crafters who, more than any others, have influenced you in your creative life and why? In my limited creative life (since retirement), members of Fibres have been the main influence in what I have achieved to date.

Describe your workspace. My workspace is half an enclosed breezeway. I share the room with my husband’s computer interests. Actually, I think I commandeer a bit more than half the space.

What 3 tools could you not live without? Sewing machine, scissors and unpicker.

Do you keep a sketchbook or journal? I have a folder in which I keep instructions and samples of what I have learnt since joining Fibres. Prior to this I was either working, meeting the needs of family and pursuing other interests.

We all share our knowledge at Fibres and Fabrics. Do you extend this in any way by participating in or teaching workshops? When time permits I attend workshops at the centre and regularly attend the Patchwork Group days. When I feel I can, I will happily share my knowledge, but I feel I am still very much a learner.

How do you inspire your creativity when you’re stuck? Think about what I am trying to do, look at books on the subject and ask other members of Fibres for ideas and help.

If cost wasn’t an issue, what avenues would you choose to explore, to expand your skills? Attend workshops and classes.

Joan, you do so much for Fibres, coordinating the Patchwork and Quilting Group and all raffles during the year. How do you balance your life? Haphazardly! Pursuing creative interests generally fits around other regular commitments I have made.

(Photo to the right is Joan's "I Spy" quilt.)

Have you, or do you intend to, exhibit any of your work, either collaboratively or alone? If so where and when? Some of my quilting efforts have been included with the work of other Fibres members shown at the Craft and Quilt Fairs. I don’t have plans for any other type of exhibition.

What does your work mean to you? Personal satisfaction on achieving creating something and the pleasure of creating that item.

Thank you for sharing yourself with us, Joan.

Silk Scarf Painting With Margaret Wretham

2011-06-09T12:00:00.001+10:00

On Wednesday 1st June, Margaret Wretham showed a group of Fiberians how to paint silk scarves with some delightful results.

Here some of the ladies clustered together for a photo with their results.

A very good outcome!

Getting to know Jan Crabtree

2011-06-06T07:00:00.000+10:00

The fact that you’re a member of Fibres and Fabrics shows you are creative by nature. Define yourself – art/craft wise? I would describe myself as being a mixed media / collage art person.

Are you more comfortable working in one particular medium than most others? Paper, fabric and paint.

Are there any artists or crafters who, more than any others, have influenced you in your creative life and why? My Dad, Gordon, a watchmaker and jeweller by trade. He was very artistic and always encouraged me, even when I drew and painted animals all over the bedroom walls when I was younger. Every member of Fibres and Fabrics.

Describe your workspace. I have a very tiny studio (my laundry) but being too hot most of the year, I work on the dining table.

What 3 tools could you not live without? Heat gun, scissors, paint brushes.

Do you keep a sketchbook or journal? No. I would lose it.

We all share our knowledge at Fibres and Fabrics. Do you extend this in any way by participating in or teaching workshops? I enjoy participating in most workshops. Teaching? Not as yet.

How do you inspire your creativity when you’re stuck? Browsing through books. Dreaming up new ideas.

If cost wasn’t an issue, what avenues would you choose to explore to expand your skills? I would attend more forums.

How do you balance your life? Art comes first. Everything else is secondary.

Has any of your work appeared, or is it going to appear, in a display or exhibition either collaboratively or alone? If so where and when? Collaboratively in the Alba Leucos exhibition and anything to do with Fibres and Fabrics.

What does your work mean to you? Everything. I love to be creative.

Thank you Jan.

What's Marion up to?!

2011-05-31T16:35:00.002+10:00

Have just received an email from Annette with these interesting links connected to what Marion's doing .....

"I am just having a cuppa and cruising some blogs that India Flint also reads regularly, one is Sophie Munns blog, she has some info on the event that Marion is down south for and also a link to the ghostnet site which is what Marion is doing with the aboriginal people. Thought it might be good for the F&F blog and also makes interesting reading and viewing.. the pictures that Sophie has on her blog are fantastic.. you have to scroll down a bit, but you'll find them I’m sure. (Just click on the coloured words to link to the sites.)

Annette

Getting to Know Arlene White

2011-05-30T07:00:00.000+10:00

The fact that you’re a member of Fibres and Fabrics shows you are creative by nature. Define yourself – art/craft wise? My mother was the first person to encourage me to be creative in crafts, she saw it, so I think I'm creative by nature, it just needed encouragement. I do have trouble sometimes getting started with my creative juices, but they seem to flow ok, once they start.

Are you more comfortable working in one particular medium than most others? I love threads, most sorts but nothing too hairy.... Not so much into paper anymore, it deteriorates too quickly for my liking.

Are there any artists or crafters who, more than any others, have influenced you in your creative life and why? Annemaieke Mein. Her book 'The Art of Annemieke Mein - Wildlife artist in textiles' was my first introduction in embroidery, I loved the way she interprets wildlife in textiles. Judy Stephenson, a local artist, has had a huge influence on me, especially since my first stumpwork lesson was with her. Another very talented UK lady, Kate Sinton, tutor at the Royal School of Needlework and my Volunteer Mentor at the St Paul’s Cathedral project, who is just about to publish her first book in Stumpwork, has encouraged me and been a great mentor to me and encouraged me to explore my creative side and expand my embroidery knowledge. As for most recently, some of the wonderfully talented ladies at Fibres have influenced me as well. They are a very creative and talented bunch.

Describe your workspace. I'm a fairly organised person, so my workspace is in two places actually: 95% in my craft room, which is mostly tidy except when I’m working on a project. But I do clear up (most of the time). And the other 5% is in the lounge room, where I like to stitch and watch movies on telly. Hubby gets a bit upset if I cover too many flat surfaces......

What 3 tools could you not live without? My hands-free hoop, needles, and my laptop (where I do a lot of my research and writing up my projects and lessons).

Do you keep a sketchbook or journal? I have several. Working on number 3 now. I started using a sketchbook when I was in the UK. They are wonderful reference tool. After I finish a project, I print out some pictures and stick them in my book and add notes. Some of my assessment pieces have taken up a lot of writing etc, but they still make an appearance in my books. Ideas, colours and just some things that I just love the look of. Jewellery store flyers are great for inspiration.

We all share our knowledge at Fibres and Fabrics. Do you extend this in any way by participating in or teaching workshops? Have already, with assistance from Janet Banks. We did the stumpwork dragonfly last year, and this year we have done stumpwork gumnuts for the White exhibition. I have two offers for doing online classes now, and hope to offer similar classes to Fibres in the near future. I think my expertise in the field of Stumpwork is expanding and improving, and this is a line of embroidery technique that is dying out, and I wish to keep it alive.

How do you inspire your creativity when you’re stuck? Depends on the project - for my stumpwork I make a coffee, and sit down near my bookcase, and browse my library of craft books. For my crazy quilting, I put the block on the floor, and pull out my laces, trims, buttons etc and I sit and play until I'm happy with what I've laid out.

If cost wasn’t an issue, what avenues would you choose to explore to expand your skills? I'd really like to finish my City and Guilds level 3 in Embroidery, and the stumpwork on as well.

How do you balance your life? I have for years used this formula:

Family.

Work.

Hobbies, Scouting and other volunteer jobs. My family is always first in whatever I do, and that rule will never change.

Have you or do you intend to exhibit any of your work, either collaboratively or alone? If so where and when? Sure have! I had 'My Lady on a Swing' in our Totems exhibition last year, and this year we had the 'Lengths of the Earth' Exhibition. And of course at the craft show last year and at the Townsville Show.

What does your work mean to you? My work, I gather you mean my embroideries? A lot actually. I see them as a reflection of myself, especially my last two stumpwork peices. I love doing the Crazy Quilt round robins and work with the UK Embroiderers guild Forum group, as it gets my work out and about the world and who knows where a lead might come from, for commissions or paid tutoring. Adding Stumpwork elements to my crazy quilting blocks is a good way to show the world that stumpwork is not just resigned to embroideries, as for the photo of my work on Karrin’s block, Mrs Bloomers.

Thank you Arlene.

Marion Gaemers under the Microscope!

2011-05-23T07:00:00.006+10:00

1. The fact that you’re a member of Fibres and Fabrics shows you are creative by nature. Define yourself as an artist?

I think of myself as a basket maker following the traditions of basket makers. I like that there is a large history of basketry in all cultures. But I also enjoy breaking tradition and using basketry techniques to make forms that are not baskets and finding new and waste materials to use in my work.

2. Are you more comfortable working in one particular medium than most others?

Yes I love working in 3d. I don’t particularly like to work flat and am a hopeless painter. The other thing I have a problem with is using colour sticking mainly to browns.

3. Are there any artists or crafters who, more than any others, have influenced you in your creative life and why?
On a world scale Andy Goldsworthy and Chris Drury – both these artist do amazing landscape art work, Bronwyn Oliver (Australian) her metal sculptural forms are exquisite. On a personal level Robert Burton,( who talked me into exhibiting and doing workshops when I was just beginning) Rhyl Hindwood (who came to Townsville and taught me coiled basketry with banana fibre) and all the members of fibres and fabrics. And I am sure there are many more in one way or another.

4. Describe your workspace.

I will work anywhere in the house depending on what I am making. At the dining room table, on the couch in front of the television or in the yard. It depends on what I am making and the time of day.

5. What 3 tools could you not live without?

Needle, secateurs, pliers.

6. Do you keep a sketchbook or journal?

Sort of. I am not a regular keeper of a journal but do have a book I will write or sketch ideas in. If I can’t find the book I use bits of paper that are scattered over the house.

7. We all share our knowledge at Fibres and Fabrics. Do you extend this in any way by participating in or teaching workshops outside of this group?

I have taught basketry for various groups around Australia. I do about 2 workshops for various organisations or galleries a year. I am currently involved with Carpentaria GhostNets and I have been teaching in Aboriginal and Torres Strait communities. Next month I will be going to floating lands at the Sunshine Coast to continue this.

8. How do you inspire your creativity when you’re stuck?

I might go back through my journal to look at old ideas I have drawn and not worked through or I play with the materials to see what else they can do. But usually a new idea has come to me while I am working on a piece.

9. If cost wasn’t an issue, what avenues would you choose to explore to expand your skills?

Larger work.

10. How do you balance your life?

I don’t do any housework. I don’t have children so my art is a priority in my life.

11. Have you, or do you intend to, exhibit any of your work, either collaboratively or alone? If so where and when?

I have an active exhibition history exhibiting my work in galleries locally and in Australia since 1988. I will always make work for an exhibition if I am asked or if I like the idea. My favourite gallery is Umbrella Studio in Townsville, which started as an artist run space and is a membership gallery. I have been involved with Umbrella for over 20 years. I have had a few solo exhibitions but my favourite way to exhibit is collaboratively with one or more other artists. I also like outside short exhibitions like Strand Ephemera.

12. What does your work mean to you?

I just love to make things. Exhibiting enables me to continue to make and to grow my work.

Inspirational!

Creative Arts Day

2011-05-20T23:21:00.001+10:00

Exciting things happening at Creative Arts! Roll on Alba Leucos.

Getting to Know Pam

2011-05-16T07:00:00.042+10:00

Define yourself – art/craft wise? Plodder. If only I could 'plod' like you, I'd think I was flying!
Are you more comfortable working in one particular medium than most others? I am comfortable with most mediums...

Are there any artists or crafters who, more than any others, have influenced you in your creative life and why? No.

Describe your workspace. Clean and tidy when there is no work, untidy and messy when working.

What 3 tools could you not live without? Sewing machine, camera, paints.

Do you keep a sketchbook or journal? Yes..yes..yes. Some samples of my work, lots of details on how they are put together, notes from workshops.

We all share our knowledge at Fibres and Fabrics. Do you extend this in any way by participating in or teaching workshops? Yes, by going to as many forums as possible, also local workshops that are available. Pam recently attended a five day photography workshop given by Steve Gonsalves at Fibre Arts in Ballarat. He will be giving another 5 day workshop at Fibre Arts @ Townsville (see the link on the right under FORUM LINKS) in September which will be a very exciting event for Townsville artists.

How do you inspire your creativity when you’re stuck? Wait for ages for the light bulb to come on!

If cost wasn’t an issue, what avenues would you choose to explore to expand your skills? As many workshops as possible.

How do you balance your life? A lot of off balance, stand back, think about it, write a list of things to do, then cross off as they are done..

Have you or do you intend to exhibit any of your work, either collaboratively or alone? If so where and when? Always with Fibres.

What does your work mean to you? That deep inside there is something that has to come forward.

Thank you Pam.

Getting to Know Prof Betsy Jackes

2011-05-09T17:31:00.002+10:00

The fact that you’re a member of Fibres and Fabrics shows you are creative by nature. Define yourself – art/craft wise? Craft, more a technician than really creative though I like some design.

Are you more comfortable working in one particular medium than most others?Have tried many and have settled to patchwork and appliqué – not rally a hands dirty as my mother said I didn’t really like making mud pies and pottery doesn’t appeal – to do that is – but once I taught fabric printing. I am a fiddler.

Are there any artists or crafters who, more than any others, have influenced you in your creative life and why? Diane Johnson and Lois French Technique, Robyn Ginn – permission to use imagination.

Describe your workspace. Usually in front of TV.

What 3 tools could you not live without? Scissors, pins and needles, pencil and paper.

Do you keep a sketchbook or journal? In a fashion!!

We all share our knowledge at Fibres and Fabrics. Do you extend this in any way by participating in or teaching workshops? Have done so.

How do you inspire your creativity when you’re stuck? No idea.

If cost wasn’t an issue, what avenues would you choose to explore to expand your skills? Probably go to more workshops in different parts of the country.

How do you balance your life? I just keep going.

Have you, or do you intend to, exhibit any of your work, either collaboratively or alone? If so where and when? No.

What does your work mean to you? Relaxation and chance to be creative and keep fingers occupied.

Thank you Betsy!

Pink Tie Tea!

2011-05-05T08:49:00.003+10:00

Once a year Fibres and Fabrics hold a morning tea to raise funds for our Sewing for Cancer group, run by Jessica, to buy the materials they need. This year Donna and Selena organised the morning and we all enjoyed ourselves immensely. There were some great prizes sponsored by PomPom Rouge and Studio 2. We were asked to dress in black and white and to wear a pink tie. Linda won the prize for the best tie closely followed by Jan and Margaret W.

A goodly amount was raised, thank you Donna and Selena for a wonderful morning.

Getting to Know Janet Banks

2011-05-02T08:44:00.004+10:00

1. How do you categorize yourself – art/craft wise?

Book artist

Everyone will know Janet's work which has featured prominently in many of the Fibres and Fabrics displays and exhibitions.

2. Is there one artist or crafter who more than any other has influenced you in your creative life and why?

Jean LittleJohn, and Jan Beaney The concept that embroidery stitches do not have to be perfectly uniform; that a piece of work could be composed entirely of one stitch worked in varying sizes and threads to produce an amazing variety of texture.

3. Describe your workspace.

For many years total chaos but becoming more organised and am learning to tidy up after a day’s work. I am beginning to realise the time saved by not having to go searching for something that may or may not be where you think you used it last.

4. What 3 tools could you not live without?

Paper, pencil, eraser

5. Do you keep a sketchbook or journal?

I keep an art journal, which is a cross between a visual and written diary. My sketchbook pages usually find their way into my art journal. Project notes are usually scribbled on the back of scrap paper pads which are shredded as I work through or discard ideas.

6. Do you teach? Where and when?

I teach fibreart at Fibres and Fabrics in Townsville, and embroidery online for www.joggles.com

7. How do you inspire your creativity when you’re stuck?

I don’t. Read a book instead. The spark will flare by itself in its own time.

8. If money wasn't an issue, how would you further develop yourself in your field?

Art lessons in composition and design

9. How do you balance your life?

The family are used to my creative starts and support me with advice and no recriminations if tea is late, inedible or completely forgotten.

10. Have you recently or are you planning to soon exhibit you work? If so where and when?

I routinely show my work to the world on my blog: http://loriidae.livejournal.com

Thank you for sharing your art life with us Janet.

Exhibition ‘Collected Leavings’, April 15 – May 22 2011

2011-04-30T09:28:00.000+10:00

The work of one of our members, Annette Sibson, is being exhibited at Umbrella Studio at the moment. She has used her eco-dyed cloth to create some stunning effects. Really worth a visit!

Getting to know Selena Smith.

2011-04-18T23:08:00.011+10:00

pushing the boundaries oil on canvas purchased by an art therapist in Perth.

How do you categorize yourself – art/craft wise. As a full-time artist, mentor and public speaker.

· Are there any artists or crafters who, more than any others, have influenced you in your creative life and why? Rowan Atkinson as he has always done his own thing and disregarded critics. Margaret Olley as she is a strong woman who is still painting copiously.

· Describe your workspace. A little chaotic, relaxed and spacious, shared and fun to be in….in fact I sometimes spend 6 days a week there.

· What 3 tools could you not live without? Paint, recycled papers and my contact lenses…without them I am extremely blind.

· Do you keep a sketchbook or journal? Sometimes. I have 20 full at the moment….but I am an organic painter and go with the moment and lose myself in the process…then tweak the work at the end.

· Do you share your knowledge of your own particular field with others and in what way? All the time, I run classes for the artistically challenged and childrens’ art classes.

· Would Studio2 have a list of these classes for people who are interested? Yes, the classes are at the studio. The artistically challenged series are for adults who believe that they cannot draw...but if a stick figure is all they can do, I can take it further with them. The children’s classes are divided into two areas. Firstly master classes for those with skill and who would like to enter competitions and develop their skill and secondly the creative kids class for creative exploration of materials and styles.

· How do you inspire your creativity when you’re stuck? Paint the canvas a random colour and then let the colour talk to me. It reveals my mood too.

· If money wasn't an issue, how would you further develop yourself in your field? Travel and partake in residencies all over the world.

· How do you balance your life? Art first and last, family first and second, both of these are fun. So I feel content.

My first painting that sold at an exhibition in 2003. This is done in pointillism style.

· Have you recently or are you planning to soon exhibit you work, either collaboratively in a group or alone? If so where and when? Yes I have just exhibited at Umbrella Studio. Utilizing the vault space and stairwell, it was called N TWINE and looked at our relationship with trees. I collected driftwood and built a tree and drew trees with human forms entwined. It opened in Jan and closed in March. And I have an exhibition at Studio 2 in June so I am painting madly for that around my normal supply of work for the Studio and a few commissions. It’s to be REVERSING FORWARD WITH FRIENDS and open on June 3. It explores numbers and games with friends and will have interactive elements for visitors to the studio. Thank you, Selena. We look forward to following your career into the future.

N Twine