Sampling

Julie Coghlan

As textile artists, one of the most important techniques in our repertoire is sampling:  trying out ideas with scraps of fabric, different stitches, new ways of printing or altering the surface of a material.  Some of these trials will come to nothing, whilst others have a profound impact on the direction that our work takes.  It is an opportunity to take risks, be experimental and playful.  

Over the last few weeks we have all been busy sampling and testing our ideas for Thread Running Through our new exhibition for Cliffe Castle opening in November 2019.  Working with a muted colour palette and inspired by a workshop in May, Julie has been exploring new stitches.  In fact she can't stop stitching now she has started! Taking inspiration from the windows of Bridgehouse mill she has been wondering what the view would be like for the children who had to work in the mills.

Gemma has been playing with Gelli plate printing (mono printing) to create a textural background for her work.  We can't wait to see where these experiments will lead her.

Catherine Slater

Gemma Kelmanson

Catherine has taken a huge step out of her comfort zone, developing a series of collars one of which incorporates some vibrant synthetic fabrics in neon colours.