Trip to India

Big changes

2010-01-26T15:51:00.002Z

Today i have officially handed my notice at University College Falmouth where i have been on and off for nearly 10 years. Time me thinks for a whole new life. At the grand old age of 40 I am going off to see the world. Follow my journey.

Save our Poly!

2010-01-12T10:09:00.000Z

Save our Poly!

Yoga Libra collection Tea-towels - Packaging

2009-12-07T21:05:00.002Z

Yoga Libra collection Tea-towels

2009-12-07T20:55:00.004Z

Please take a look on my Etsy shop at my latest range of teatowels available for just 9.50 GBP each. There are 12 designs to choose from.

Falmouth Poly Bazaar

2009-12-07T20:50:00.003Z

After a successful weekend showing and selling at Fowey Christmas Market this week i'm now preparing for the Falmouth Poly Bazaar. Starting Saturday 12th December it will be open 10-5 every day for a week. Come and join us for mince pies, mulled wine and a festive atmostphere.

Yoga Libra fabric collection

2009-10-25T19:37:00.004Z

A sneak preview at my new collection of fabrics. Digitally generated imagery for digital print and jacquard weave.

Repeated forms and also one off placement prints designed for yoga accessories and apparel.
New products to appear online shortly.

Yoga Libra caravan on show

2009-10-16T12:37:00.006+01:00

For sale....See ebay http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&Item=250516732349&Category=32633&_trkparms=algo%3DLVI%26its%3DI%26otn%3D1

Lilly - Pure wool Bunny

2009-10-11T20:02:00.003+01:00

This beautiful cream wool bunny is now for sale in my Etsy shop

More studio shots

2009-10-06T18:23:00.013+01:00

The front of Trevaunance cove art and design workshops, this shows just how close to the stunning beach (the blue between the telegraph poles is the sea).
Inside the workshops -
Sujati:- A very talented artist who specialises in feminine and textile art.

Just moving in to my studio/shop.

Sithembile the scruffy crow can now be purchased at my Etsy store.
Handmade using retro fabrics and other work-box finds, Blejan is a delightful soft sculpture bird available to buy at my Etsy store.
One of twins, Makko is a large rastafarian looking crow, digitally printed fabrics, machine stitched and hand finished using beads, braids wire legs and buttons. Available to buy at my Etsy store.
Concerned by the decline of the cockney sparrow due to the lack of green spaces, i have responded by creating small birds and a house to live in. Digitally printed onto silk using maps of the East end of London as a source of inspiration, these birdhouses are handmade and ideal for a cockney sparrow sporting his 'pearly king' suit to inhabit. Available at my Etsy store.
Inspired by a courting pair of doves who lived in our garden, these soft birds have been created using leftover cotton and silk, buttons, beads and other embellishments. Buy from Etsy.com

Return of the birds!

2009-09-29T16:33:00.006+01:00

As i unpacked some of my things at the new studio it felt as though i was discovering old friends. These birds and birdhouses were part of my MA midway show, September 2008 when i showcased an interpretation of my Hawthorn tree in my garden which i love to work under (weather permitting), a constant source of inspiration and entertainment. Birds visit to feed, rest and have the odd natter , each revealing their own character or personality.
The raggety crow that sauntered up and down the fence reminded me of an old rastafarian!
Two doves nested and reared their young chicks, so gentle and very pretty.
Hemp and ramie mix fabric, digitally printed to produce a series of bird cushions.

Finished!

2009-09-21T21:41:00.007+01:00

The MA is over, just the graduation in October to look forward to.
I have a new project on the go, a small studio/shop about 100 yds from St.Agnes Beach in and amongst loads of talented Artists/Designers and Makers. Trevaunance Cove Workshops. I move in this week and officially start trading as 'Vicki-Sue Designs' on the 1st October.
These are a few before shots i took today whilst measuring up.

Small but everything i need.

The Private View - 3rd September 2009

2009-09-20T10:32:00.011+01:00

Yoga Libra Caravan

I have been largely inspired by a need to create a space for my yoga and meditation practise. Excited by the endless possibilities of modern digital technologies, I have aimed to challenge your perceptions through material applications.

In our current economic climate, more and more Britons are staying at home for their holidays and making the most of our beautiful country and stunning coastlines. Caravanning has been boosted this year by 80% as people try to save money and begin to enjoy getting back to nature and rediscovering simple pleasures.

Part of my aim was to add a little bit of inexpensive luxury to caravanning in an innovative and thought provoking way. The imagery is not what it at first appears to be – look closely.

The interior showcases my digital textiles and digital surface design. I have produced a series of jacquard woven fabrics, digitally printed cushions, and upholstery and lazercut designs.

The interior is designed as a personal meditation space. The altar cloth has been woven white on white with the symbols of Earth, Air, Fire and Water, the four crucial elements essential for an altar. The lotus flower and Om symbols are entwined into the design as an offering to the yogic philosophy.

I have taken my design and shown real versatility through the use of a variety of material processes. The outcome reveals a myriad of possibilities, opportunities and surprises.

Almost finished!

2009-08-29T23:21:00.002+01:00

Yoga Libra elements

2009-08-23T16:48:00.006+01:00

Yoga mat
Digitally printed imagery onto Hemp/Ramie, organic cotton wadding, natural scrim backing, with fresh local lavender trapped within the layers of fabrics .

Blanket
Digitally printed onto arctic wool and backed with organic cotton/wool fabric, snuggly and warm for Shavasana.

Lovelane caravans

2009-08-23T15:48:00.003+01:00

I stumbled across Lovelane Caravans.
Whilst it was the imagery that initially tempted me in I was pleasantly surprised to find it is in Constantine, Cornwall. (Not too far from me). A selction of gorgeous restored caravans available for holidaying in.

Caravan ..... two weeks to go!

2009-08-16T21:00:00.010+01:00

The van is back from the sign writers and looks great. Overall it looks fab until you look a little closer and start seeing the mistakes they made. I was a little disappointed with the final outcome but can sort it myself.
My friend Lizzie spent days chatting and picking at the odd shapes and misfits, Thank-You so much. Eric has been amazing helping to silcone seal the edges, fit the carpet and drill and screw various elements on for me, again Thank-you so very much!

Door mirrors:- Me doing Vriksha-Asana pose (TREE), photograph converted to a vector line file, chakras placed on the body image and then laser cut using a Trotec cutter. The idea is the stand in front of the mirror and check your own chakra alignment.

Here are some work in progress / sneak preview images...

Front window blind

Rear window blinds (Jacquard woven design)

Battery candles (For H&S!) in slate holders

Green Tara Goddess etched into acrylic block.

Fire elements on the shrine.

Yoga Libra...A name for my caravan.

2009-08-16T20:56:00.004+01:00

My 1971 Astral Scout caravan has a name. Yoga Libra.
Yoga means "Union between mind, body and Soul" and Libra is my star sign, the horoscope symbol is the Scales....balance.

Cool Caravans

2009-08-08T19:11:00.002+01:00

Caravans are officially cool! This article in The Guardian explains why.

La Rosa campsite.

2009-08-08T19:08:00.002+01:00

La Rosa campsite in Yorkshire is a campsite filled with old gypsy caravans and circus tents. Take a look.

DIY buttons

2009-07-12T22:35:00.006+01:00

Having never tried it and unable to the 'Right' buttons for the meditation cushions i have had a go at covering my own. They are incredibly easy and very effective.

Caravan in progress - update

2009-06-21T10:40:00.008+01:00

The van has all the 'building' work finished and is completely white now inside. Next weekend the carpet is going to be fitted.
I have made 4 roman blinds for the back windows from my jacquard weave. They look and fit great. The shrine cloth is finished as are the 2 towels and pair of yoga pants which have been digitally embroidered. Next is all the cushions, the front blind and then the awning.
Then I will produce a blanket, yoga mat and 2 stools, one for meditation and the other as a caravan step.

Jacquard Power loom

2009-06-12T11:55:00.006+01:00

Taking an MA in Textiles has given me the opportunity to try weaving again. I was taught basic weave in the 1st year of my degree and loved the process up to the point of sitting in front of the loom repetivily pushing a shuttle to and fro.

With Jacquard weaving i am able to work digitally which is my passion, still being fairly mathmatical about the preparation but not doing the weave.

These images show the loom with my fabrics till attached. The fabrics are for the shrine as an altar cloth.

Caravan in progress

2009-06-12T09:14:00.008+01:00

Work on the caravan is going really well and i am on target with my time management plan.
The van is booked into Perran Signs to have the exterior done on the 3rd August so the 2nd is my deadline. These photos are of the day i picked the van up from Devon. It is a 1971 Astral Scout, 3 berth. However i feel that you need to be very friendly to get three sleeping comfortably in there!

I love the stable door!

Pictures of the interior before i began work on it. These images show how dark, cramped and beige it was in there!

This is a WIP picture, the inners ripped out and new wood boxings for the shrine/altar, a small seat, and 2 small shelves for speakers have been built with the help of Eric my partner. This shows how i have left the double bed area in which will be transformed into a meditation platform which will be carpeted. Most of the inside has 3 coats of white. The woodwork is going to be covered with upvc (except the shrine). This will hide a multitude of cracks and sins!

Caravan Artists

2009-06-03T10:43:00.001+01:00

http://www.thecaravangallery.co.uk/scripts/openExtra.asp?extra=60

Caravan mock-Up

2009-06-02T21:04:00.001+01:00

I've had a really productive day today, a meeting with all the MA students who are graduating in September and Katie (Lecturer) to talk logistics of the show. A great catch-up with Andy my course leader to talk about my work and went to see Perran signs and have booked the caravan in for the 3rd of August to have the exterior done.
Paul asked me to do a clear mock-up on Photoshop of what I want the van to look like, placement of the imagery etc. This is the image i've sent.

Research into shrines/altars for the Yogavan

2009-05-28T11:39:00.001+01:00

I found this website facinating having stumbled accross it whilst researching meditation shrines.

Yogaroque!

2009-05-21T22:48:00.004+01:00

My latest design,'Yogaroque' a contemporary twist on a classic baroque design. Using yoga poses.
Yoga has really changed my life and all of my latest baroque designs illustrate imagery of personal, special things that have influenced my life.

Green Tara Mantra

2009-05-21T22:30:00.006+01:00

Green Tara is associated with unobstructed compassion and is the manifestation of enlightenment. Portrayed in lotus position with her right leg slightly outstreached she is ready to leap into action for those who pray for her help. She has vowed to be reborn alway's in a woman's body and is seen as incarnated in all good women. She is also a grantor of wished with a special love of protecting women and children. Ultimately Green Tara has dedicated herself to guiding beings upon the path of enlightenment.

I came across this video whilst researching Goddess Green Tara for my meditation shrine to go in my caravan. This is just so beautiful, sit back and enjoy.
The Green Tara mantra of Tibetan Buddhism is sung by Chinese artist Su Ching-yen.
In Tibet "Om Tare Tuttare Ture Soha"

......Caravan after

2009-05-19T23:10:00.004+01:00

This is a rough idea of how the caravan will look when it has been wrapped in my yoga design. The imagery will be a lot smaller in scale.

Caravan before....

2009-05-19T22:57:00.003+01:00

This is the caravan i've bought on ebay.

Vehicle wrapping

2009-05-19T21:32:00.005+01:00

The whole point of me doing my Masters was to delve deeper into the world of digital print so i've been looking into digitally printing onto vehicles, i first saw a demo of this at FESPA expo in Amsterdam in 2005, when a company was wrapping a mini in imagery of tulips.
I'm looking into getting a caravan wrapped, all will be revealed but am beginning to know far too much about caravans .

2009-05-07T16:30:00.001+01:00

Open publication - Free publishing - More diy

Thank goodness it's Friday!

2009-05-01T11:32:00.001+01:00

China blue baroque cushion

2009-04-28T15:40:00.002+01:00

This is a 22inch cotton cushion cover, my baroque print and overdyed with china blue dye. Complete with piping AND a zip!

Clocks

2009-04-28T00:44:00.007+01:00

Experimenting with applying my imagery to different surfaces.
My clocks were produced from my own photographs, converted to vector files and laser cut from 3mm acrylic sheet.
20 GBP each.

Hemp cushions

2009-04-28T00:39:00.005+01:00

Digitally printed labels.

"3JD's" "Crossbird"
Both images have been digitally printed onto 60%Hemp/40%Ramie for an eco-friendly option.

Baroque and iron!

2009-04-28T00:03:00.003+01:00

Such a mundane thankless task....ironing!
But with such a beautiful baroque design how could you resist?

My baroque fabric

2009-04-27T23:45:00.005+01:00

Front of linen cushion.

Back!

This is the first of my baroque type fabrics made into cushions, the idea is to get the viewer to look closer, that there is more to see than meets the eye. Similar to us as complex human beings!
This design encompasses symbols and elements which hold huge significance in my life. Ie;
The beautiful female figure is my best friend who holds me up on a regular basis throughout my life. (My initials are in her hand), a sillouette of a Lily represents my gorgeous little granddaughter of the same name. The heart shaped grenade is a symbol for my favourite band Greenday. The list goes on but just see what else you can see.

Wrap around aprons

2009-04-22T10:31:00.001+01:00

I am wishing to start producing wrap around aprons from gorgeous fabrics and am on the look out for a pattern similar to this dress....Any ideas?

Wallpaper From The 70's

2009-04-22T10:21:00.010+01:00

Remembering back to going to stay at Grandad's house for holidays...the wallpaper in the spare bedroom was acid/ popculture type 1970's paper and if you stared long enough shapes and faces would begin to appear, quite trippy really.
This is the idea and inspiration for my baroque designs.

Have a look at the colour lovers blog for more inspiration.

Ironing board cover

2009-04-21T16:33:00.004+01:00

Its not a great photo, but this ironing board cover costs £74.00 and has baroque type prints on it. I hate ironing clothes but would iron my beautiful fabrics on this no problem!

Sujati Banner

2009-04-17T14:21:00.003+01:00

This is an idea of how the digitally printed banners i made for Sujati designs will look in situ.

Maddi Nicholson

2009-04-17T13:02:00.004+01:00

Watch this short film about Maddi Nicholson (UK Artist) visiting the oldest steam powered mill in the world and then designs and constructs a textile birdhouse scructure/sculpture.

Modern Baroque

2009-03-20T16:41:00.000Z

I came across this blog full of beautiful rooms decorated and furnished in contemporary baroque patterns.
www.livingpod.com/lifestyle/modern_baroque/

Barok n’ Roll Wallpaper by Emil Kozak

2009-03-20T14:29:00.003Z

Designed by internationally acclaimed artist/skateboarder Emil Kozak, Barok n’ Roll wallpaperlooks cool at first glance but even better as you get up close to inspect the details. From a distance, Kozak’s design resembles your typical Baroque pattern. On careful inspection, however, you’ll see that each major detail in the design is unique.

This is what i am designing at the moment for the interiors of my playdens.

Knit and Crochet Club

2009-03-05T22:12:00.011Z

In an attempt to get out more and stop hibernating i ventured into Knit club at Babahogs Cafe in Falmouth, held every Wednesday 7 - 10. Mum taught me to knit and crochet as a little girl and i have picked both of them up and put them back down again over my nearly 40 years of making and doing but i do prefer crocheting.
I bought a fantastic book that teaches loads of stitches and encourages you to create your own patterns called Beyond the square, Crochet Motifs by Edie Eckman
There are some fantastic websites that offer free crochet patterns
These are my recent creations.A lonely lovebird...i will make her a loverman
Experimenting with stitches and shapes
A snuggle blanket to crochet under.
Funky little crobot which i started when my daughter-in-law was pregnant with Lilly, finally finished!

Romantic Venice

2009-02-26T16:40:00.004Z

I have just booked to go to Venice for 5 days with my wonderful man Eric. Flying from Bristol on the Monday, staying at the Rialto hotel on the Grand Canal. Can't wait....must remember wellies!

Damask, Rococco and Baroque research

2009-02-26T16:34:00.007Z

Teaching teacups

2009-02-26T15:43:00.003Z

This is one of my appliqued teacups which will be fastened to the walls of the play houses. The idea that the child learns different fastenings such as buttons, zips, etc. This one is fixed together with velcro and will be fixed to the walls with velcro. i aim to make them almost camoflaged into the walls so that the item is not immediately obvious. The cups and saucers, teapots, cakes etc will encourage pretend, imitative and imaginative play.

Seals at Gwithian

2009-02-23T15:08:00.006Z

Whilst walking with Eric, Mum and Dad near Godrevy lighthouse we came across a beach which is unaccessable, it was full of sunbathing seals. We counted 94 and could not believe our luck.

Valentine's Coffee

2009-02-23T15:02:00.003Z

After moving to a new place in Penryn, I was feeling a little lost and not settled in, nowhere felt like home. A couple of days before Valentine's Day the morning sun created shadows onto my morning coffee. It made me smile...a great way to start the day.

I think this would make a lovely valentines card.

MAD Tea Party

2009-02-18T15:18:00.000Z

Masters Art Design (MAD) Tea party was an event we held on the 16th February to help raise money to go to Milan or the MA Show. We baked cakes, bought in junk to sell and made £125.00 for the pot.

Snow in Perranporth

2009-02-08T14:45:00.000Z

It rarely snows in Cornwall and even more unheard of to settle but Cornwall was in Chaos when the snow hit us at the beginning of february.

Cakes.....From 2D to 3D

2009-01-15T16:17:00.001Z

Moving forward i wanted to make the cakes more lifelike, fun for children to touch and play with, for pretending and imaginative games. I made cakes out of card and making very simple patterns began to reproduce them in lovely bright fabrics.
Although i love these, they are not incorporating the digital print that i want. I also feel that maybe some need to have more of a function....maybe childrens furniture to go in the play tents?

Christmas Fair

2009-01-14T16:02:00.000Z

I joined forces with Rowena Ardern for the weekend before Christmas and we had a stall at the Christmas Fair at Jubilee Wharf, Penryn a beautiful Eco-Building by the waters edge at Penryn, Cornwall.

I produced 3 clocks and a load of brooches to try to make a bit of money for Christmas and was more than pleased with the results.

This was one of my photographs which led onto the acrylic laser cut brooches. The brooches and clocks are available on my Etsy store.

Play Dens

2009-01-10T12:20:00.002Z

This is a very rough image of what i'm trying to acheive, from the outside the playhouse will look like the birdhouses but inside will be like a teahouse.

Whilst looking for Emily Dysons shop Couverture i came across a few beautiful childrens shop's on Kensington Road. One had gorgeous hand appliqued play dens in the window. I keep looking but still no digitally printed ones.

1950's Aprons

2009-01-07T14:50:00.009Z

Aprons inspired by the 1950's by MALPHI. These are gorgeous and look great to wear everyday. If i had longer legs i would buy their bloomers....delicious.
I think i'll make some aprons with a digital twist.

New Years Resolution....

2009-01-05T12:43:00.001Z

...write on my blog at LEAST once a week.

Cupcake applique samples

2008-10-25T23:25:00.001+01:00

A selection of samples i've been working on which were inspired by drawing my cupcakes.

Bon Voyage Katie and Chris!

2008-10-25T23:19:00.002+01:00

I Said goodbye to my very dear friend Katie Devenish and hubby Chris who are cycling around the world for a few years and finally finishing at New Zealand. They have a blog should you fancy following along. They are trying to make it as interactive as possible by sending and receiving gifts along the way and by documenting every step of the way.

I love my Studio

2008-10-25T23:05:00.005+01:00

This is a montage of pictures of my studio so that i can show you all angles. I had a trip to Ikea a couple of weeks ago to get a couple of new desks and check out the little step stool! I've just tidied it and now have evidence that sometimes....just sometimes, it's clutter free.
I feel ready now to start on my presentation for Monday and then back to sewing more fabric cakes and plates.

Four fancy cakes

2008-10-22T20:48:00.004+01:00

I'm definately getting better at the cupcakes, here are 4 more i made to help to get to know my subject. I've now drawn these and produced samples using scraps of fabrics which i will scan in and post this week.
I went for High Tea at Charlotte's Tea House in Truro on Saturday to live the experience!

cupcakes

2008-10-19T22:38:00.006+01:00

Following on from the soft sculptured birds and birdhouses, i am looking at creating fabric play tents with digital printed walls and soft sculptured, interactive add -ons inside. The first is a tent suitable for tea parties.
This afternoon i made loads of cupcakes to photograph, draw and eat. Here are just a few. I'm feeling rather sick now but will be making more tomorrow in bright colours.

Etsy

2008-10-15T14:35:00.002+01:00

I've finally joined Etsy
Call in and have a look in my shop.

ISAK

2008-10-08T10:20:00.003+01:00

It was my birthday last week and Mum gave me a bit of money to treat myself , i've had my eye on an illustration by ISAK for a while so i treated myself.

Alison Willoughby Workshop

2008-09-19T18:05:00.004+01:00

I've just spent 2 wonderful days at Trelowarren, Nr Helston Cornwall at workshop held by Alison Willoughby (Skirt Artist).
Organised by Cornwall crafts offered at a bargain cost of £60.00 for the 2 days. She taught us many different and exciting stitch techniques. Here are some off my samples. There are more on my Flickr site.

Statement for MA Show

2008-09-12T11:50:00.002+01:00

Simply stop and take in the moment…

MA Textile Design (part-time)
This exhibition marks the halfway point in my MA Textile Design, showcasing samples and prototypes of my work in progress.

What is your project?

Soft sculpture.
My aim is to design and create soft sculptures using digital technologies from computer design programmes through to laser cutting and digital fabric printing; by combining traditional methods such as screen-printing, machine and hand stitch embellishment to give a handcrafted feel.

Why have you chosen this particular focus?

In a busy modern world it is sometimes difficult to remember to enjoy the smaller things that surround us. I have been influenced by what is on my doorstep, a hawthorn tree, which is full of life and an abundance of activity and entertainment. I have become an avid birdwatcher and weather permitting, I sit under my tree to read, research, sketch and make.
Garden birds can sometimes get taken for granted or overlooked, but in a world of ever decreasing green space and woodlands they have become more and more dependent upon us feeding and housing them. My work is a gentle reminder of our feathered friends and the pleasure they give.

What processes have you involved in the production of your final Designs?

I began by looking at dolls, soft toys, the hawthorn tree and ornithology. I use photographs, film and observational sketches to study the characteristics of each individual bird. Research into nursery rhymes, fables, and myths and historical and modern tales surrounding the chosen birds have all influenced the design for each bird and their respective houses.
Using my imagery, I manipulate it using different computer programmes to generate and refine ideas and concepts.
At heart I am a maker, I enjoy the challenge that new digital technologies bring and adore traditional textile making methods, by combining the two is of pure self-indulgence.

Do you aim to develop these ideas further?
With nine species of bird regularly visiting my garden I intend to complete further studies and produce birds and houses to represent them. The process of ‘placed’ designs has opened up many new possibilities and I intend to use these methods in future work. However, I also intend to carry on researching and using new digital and traditional methods of creating soft sculpture.

What element or aspect of the design(s) would you want people to notice?

The detail of each individual piece, however tongue in cheek it may be.

What one word would summarise you as a designer?

Versatile

My MA Midway show.

2008-09-11T20:11:00.004+01:00

One year on... 4 graduating and 4 midway with another year to go " The 8 of us".
Watch the film of my show called "Simply stop and take in the moment..."

MA midway show

2008-08-31T22:45:00.004+01:00

I've nearly finished putting my show up. Here is a sneak preview. For anyone able to make it, the private view to all University College Falmouth MA shows are at Woodlane Campus, 6pm friday 5th September 2008. Hope to see you there.

Digital fabric printer

2008-08-24T19:35:00.002+01:00

Watch how I print my birdhouses.

Sujati Textile Art

2008-08-18T21:58:00.004+01:00

http://sujati.blogspot.com/
Check this blog out, Sue makes wonderful textiles and beautiful, sensitive, feminine art.

Crow and birdhouse

2008-08-11T19:06:00.004+01:00

One of the crows that visited my tree reminded me of a laid back Rastafarian that needed his own chill out pad.

A cheeky crow stopped by for peanuts and cakes.

Fabric books

2008-08-11T19:00:00.006+01:00

These are the fabric books i have been creating to accompany the birds. A mixture of digital and screen printing, machine and hand stitch.

Screen-printing books

2008-08-11T18:56:00.002+01:00

A picture of me screen-printing, never thought i'd be doing this again as i'm totally converted to digital print but i wanted to add texture to my fabric books that accompany my birds and birdhouses. Such a long process but i was extremely pleased with the results. I used a black puff binder to add depth and interest.

Simply stop and take in the moment…

2008-08-11T18:54:00.002+01:00

In a busy modern world it is sometimes difficult to remember to enjoy the smaller things that surround us.
I have been influenced by what is on my doorstep, a hawthorn tree, which is full of life and an abundance of activity and entertainment. Photographs, film and observational sketches alongside research into nursery rhymes, fables, myths and historical and modern tales surrounding the birds have all influenced my designs for each bird and their respective houses.
My 3d soft sculptures are created by combining digital and screen-printing, and machine and hand embellishment.

Fingerbobs

2008-07-23T20:23:00.002+01:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLjLB1Hijvw

I had a blast from the past which reminded me of the birds i've been making.

European stonechat

2008-07-20T19:28:00.003+01:00

I've become a birdwatcher, its official! I got really excited yesterday as i walked up the dunes we live on in Perranporth, i spotted what i thought was a bullfinch. So ran home, grabbed my camera and went back to the spot i spied him. (I presume he is a he as he was protecting a female and a nest). I used the zoom lens on my Canon 400D and managed to get loads of shots of the bird, shot home and looked in my book. It wasn't a bullfinch as it had a white patch beneath its black capped head. I went on the web and found a brilliant site www.birdguides.com
(and joined) which showed a local find of a European stonechat. It is a beautiful little bird and really tuneful.

Robson + Mason Haberdashery

2008-07-09T13:31:00.003+01:00

This blog has some great links and thoughts.
http://www.robsonandmason.blogspot.com/

How cute?

2008-07-04T12:46:00.002+01:00

Peanut bunnies by makeitawesome at http://www.etsy.com/profile.php?user_id=5035975

Jen Renniger

2008-07-04T12:41:00.002+01:00

Jen Renniger

http://www.pleasebestill.blogspot.com/

Just a beautiful blog with georgeous pictures. She has posted a picture a day, take a look.

Ann Woods georgeous birds

2008-07-03T10:20:00.000+01:00

http://annwood.net/blog/

My current work

2008-07-02T15:55:00.003+01:00

Inspired by the abundance of wildlife that visits my garden, i have took time out to really observe the birds that feast in my hawthorn tree, discovering the characteristics and personalities of the various species and the individuals that return day after day. The one legged seagull that gets bullied by all the others but still manages to survive, has been named 'stumpy' original and possibly very personal but he really doesn't seem to mind as long as he gets fed. The laid back crows that saunter along the fence and then just help themselves regardless of who is about. The theiving magpies that tend to frighten everything else away (except the doves and crows), such beautiful creatures but really mean, they know our dog's feeding time and sit on the fence until Mac takes a break and walks away then they dive down, fill up and return until they've stolen it all. The little Dunnocks prefer to feed from the ground and tend to come around mid-morning when everyone else has been and gone, so i put seeds and friut out for them, occasionally i get the dried mealworms for them as a treat. Once a month I make a load of cakes for them all, despite it not being a special occasion.

Bird cakes

3 Blocks of Lard

Wildbird seed

Dried fruit

Bacon

Melt the lard in a large pan and add all the ingredients until the lard can't absorb any more. Spoon into cake cases and any other throw away trays or pots, press down firmly and put in the fridge to set. Once set you can store in a cool cupbard or shed, take out as use as required. The appreciation and amusement you will receive is priceless.

Feeding the birds gives me the opportunity to really study, draw and photograph them. I am using the findings to produce 3d digitally printed soft sculpted birds and birdhouses to match their characters.

Birds of Safari

2008-07-02T11:51:00.000+01:00

A selection of birds that visit our garden, in particular the Hawthorn tree.

Hawthorn Tree of Safari

2008-07-02T11:15:00.002+01:00

This is the tree that inspires me, i like to sit beneath it whilst making my birds.

The Hawthorn has many purposes and many myths, it is used in Magic and often referred to as the May tree and the Goddess tree.

Making soft birds and birdhouses

2008-07-02T10:29:00.020+01:00

Digital print layout for 4 cockney sparrows. Inspired by the pearly Kings and Queens of the east end of London. Cutting out the pieces.

I machine stitch the main body.

Birds and birdhouses in progress.

Empty bodies ready to be stuffed and embellished.

Fimo and wire legs

Sparrow decorated with vintage mother of pearl buttons, sequins and beads.

All the decoration is hand stitched.

The finished cockney sparrow.

Blythe Network

2008-06-24T20:12:00.002+01:00

http://blythedoll.ning.com/

Just found a lovely website for doll lovers.

Inspiring tree

2008-06-10T14:57:00.002+01:00

I love sitting underneath the tree making my birdhouses and soft birds. Recently a cheeky crow has taken residence in the local area and calls by regualarly, he's really big and looks like a rastafarian with all his feathers and regalia. This inspired me to make a digital soft crow. This is the artwork for it, finished product photos will follow.

Cheeky crow

2008-06-10T14:46:00.003+01:00

Since the warmer weather has arrived i've taken to sitting out in the garden enjoying the sunshine. We have a beautiful hawthorn tree (Goddess Tree) just outside the kitchen window that has a birdball , (see website) http://http//www.greenandblue.co.uk/index.html an RSPB bird house and various feeders which are always full of tempting treats for the birds. We get a huge range of birds arriving for breakfast dinner and tea (as well as daily snacks).

Poppy Treffry

2008-06-10T13:44:00.004+01:00

Poppy Treffry is a textile designer based in Cornwall. I have admired and lusted after her work for years. I have just had confirmation that i can carry out work experience with her and her team in September.

http://www.poppytreffry.co.uk/

Check out her website.

Digital birdhouses

2008-06-10T13:27:00.006+01:00

Using the gardens of tremough as a source of inspiration i have been creating decorative birdhouses for interiors. I drew the basic shape in illustrator, placed my photographc image in situ and digitally printed onto cotton sateen. The idea is to create a collection of birdhouses illustrating tongue in cheek themes. I had a brainstorming session with Eric and friends, the idea was to fill in the blank. ........house. We came up with loads of different types, dog house, whore house, ale house, farm house, counting house etc etc etc.

They are various sizes to go with the cheeky birds i'm also producing.

Photos of the finished products will follow

Tamar Morgendorf

2008-06-10T10:44:00.004+01:00

http://http//www.tmogy.com/

Purely decorative birdhouses, all handstitched. Adorable!

Dolls and toys

2008-05-21T13:22:00.007+01:00

http://www.donnawilson.com/

These are a selection of some of the bunnies i have been creating.

Looking at Anti-Slavery

2008-05-21T13:04:00.006+01:00

Trafficking affects thousands of women and men in Russia. Women are trafficked from all over the country and forced to work as prostitutes or domestic workers and men are trafficked into agricultural or construction work. They are taken to countries throughout the world including Germany, Greece and Portugal as well as the United States and Israel. In the Russian Far-East women may be trafficked to China, Japan or Thailand.
Traffickers exploit people's desperation to escape from the deteriorating economy which has affected much of Russia since the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991. Organised criminal gangs take advantage of the lack of possibilities for legal migration. They operate through false employment agencies offering "good jobs" abroad as waitresses, dancers, nurses, au pairs or labourers. The salaries promised are well above what they can hope to earn in Russia and in many cases the agency arranges their transport and visas.However, the reality is often very different and the dream of a bright future soon turns into a nightmare. On arrival their papers are taken away. Women are forced to work in brothels as prostitutes and are controlled through mental abuse and physical violence including beatings and rape. Men are forced to work long hours for little or no pay on construction sites or in agriculture.

The Cutting Edge of Wallpaper

2008-05-21T08:07:00.002+01:00

The Cutting Edge of Wallpaper looks at the techniques, products and designers at the forefront of contemporary wallpaper design. Divided into chapters according to the characteristics of wallpaper (geometric, architectural, figurative and interactive/ technical), the designers include Jane Gordon Clark, Neisha Crosland, Tracey Kendall, Timorous Beasties and over 70 others.

Wallpaper has recently experienced something of a renaissance. After years of minimalism; of plastered walls painted in neutral colours, people are again coming round to the idea of individual expression in
interior design. The enormous variety and scope that wallpaper allows for means that it is, at last, hip once more.

Three essays look at the medium in depth. The first explores the history of wallpaper, and how it has evolved. A second looks at wallpaper today, and the third, by Charles Stuckey, looks at the crossover between wallpaper and fine art. A beautiful, vividly illustrated publication, this book is sure to appeal to anyone with an interest in design.

Designers
Cath Kidston, Jocelyn Warner, Neisha Crosland, Timorous Beasties, Allegra Hick, Jackson Chang, The Designers Republic, Wook Kim, Cole and Son, Blik, Rachel Kelly, Squigee, Paper Mills, Jane Gordon Clark, et al

Pattern Design by Lou Andrea Savoir

2008-05-21T07:57:00.001+01:00

Discusses pattern designs and their variations, and maps the spectrum of their possible applications, such as wallpaper, furniture, interior design, and clothes. Featuring work from pattern designers from around the world, this book celebrates the various aspects of pattern design. It is suitable for designers and artists working in all mediums. Includes a CD rom with the patterns on.

Patterns by Drusilla Cole

2008-05-21T07:53:00.002+01:00

Pattern is back, and what better way to celebrate its revival than with a cool compendium of the best pattern design from around the globe? This exciting new book showcases some of the most innovative pattern designs, including graphics, textiles, fashion, furnishings, ceramics, tiles, wallpaper, and stationery. While many of the featured designers work commercially, others are independent players whose work is cutting-edge even though, or perhaps because, they don't follow conventional techniques or disciplined structures. Figurative, funky, abstract, pixel-based, graphic, or retro patterns are all featured in this visual feast of the best work to emerge in the last five years.

My Skirt

2008-05-20T13:39:00.004+01:00

A website encorporating customer led design. http://www.myskirt.co.uk/

Design your own skirt, it will be digitally printed, sewn and embellished then returned within one week.

This is the holding page only, website in progress.

Websites I love....

2008-05-09T12:39:00.004+01:00

www.colourlovers.com

Colour website, make and upload your own colour palettes and view others. Great for inspirationhttp://www.hellolucky.com/
Quirky hand printed cards and stationary...retro style.

http://www.carolinegardner.com/
Beautiful contemporary stationary.

Response to Florence, Italy

2008-05-04T01:02:00.004+01:00

It rained and rained and rained some more. Perhaps not the best way to see the city but i didn't enjoy Florence except for the coffee and biscuits. However i created a small collection of designs. My feet hurt from all the walking on cobbles, the designer fashion was incredibly concentrated and the roads were wet. This is what i came up with.

Photoshop trees

2008-03-27T16:02:00.004Z

Repeating the image with out making any transformations except the scale. I like the way that such organic images appear to be quite spacey!