I am an artist living in Ilkley, who has worked in textiles, teaching and exhibiting work for many years.
I am inspired by the artisans who have passed down iconography and skills from one generation to the next, mother to daughter, master to apprentice. The textures, colours and images from my research form the essence of my hand embroidered and quilted artefacts.
While travelling I keep a sketchbook as well as taking photographs which enable me to paint and hand embroider contemporary compositions that reflect our cultural heritage.
My work looks at folk art and crafts from the country’s I have visited including India, Costa Rica, Vietnam, Sweden , Peru and Greece as well as arts and crafts from our own rich past.
I have exhibited recently at Bradford Industrial Museum as a member of the Flax textile group, Ilkley Library and with Ilkley Art club. I have collaborated with the Parish council to design their Christmas card.
I share through workshops my knowledge and experience of hand embroidery and quilting being an active member of the Quilters Guild and the Embroideries Guild. I am currently involved in developing Dutton’s Heritage workshops at York.
T: 07596 349763
E: helenbarnestextiles@gmail.com