This month, I'm celebrating my first anniversary of being a full-time self-employed artist, and what a first year its been! Quitting my job, and leaving behind all the security and support that came with it, was one of the toughest things I've ever done. It took a lot of courage, sleepless nights, and support from loved ones to convince myself that it was worth a shot, and thankfully here I am, still weaving away today. Its not been without its stresses and challenges, and I still feel like I've got so much to learn, but I'm so grateful that I get to spend my days doing what I love and sharing it with the likes of you. So thank you for all your support - it really means the world.
I thought I'd take a moment to look back over the past year, and pull out some of my highlights.
I got amazing support from the Gallery's curator, and it really helped me expand my thinking and push the boundaries of my practice.
I was delighted when I was able to secure a studio at Maws Craft Centre, which enabled me to finally move my willow out of all the corners of my house, and build my business - including my open studio days and workshop programme.
I've always wanted to grow my own willow, so I could feel more connect to the material that I spend my days working with. Along with planting my own willow bed in my garden, I helped restore a community willow bed in Ironbridge with the Severn Gorge Countryside Trust.
My favourite community project this year has been creating a willow sculpture with a women's social prescribing group at the Green Wood Centre. It was such a positive and fulfilling experience.
Studying for my City & Guilds Level 2 in Basketry at Westhope College whilst launching my own business was a bit of a juggle at times, but it also provided me with a great structure of learning and a wonderful community of fellow basketmakers to be part of.
My proudest achievement was receiving Arts Council England Developing Your Creative Practice funding to study heritage basketry techniques, including scuttlework with Hilary Burns MBE.
Working alongside Olivia Copley on an award-winning garden design at RHS Tatton Park Flower Show, and having it featured on BBC Gardener's World was a pretty surreal experience.
The thing that I've enjoyed most this year has been meeting and weaving alongside lovely people - from workshop participants, studio visitors, and other artists and organisations. I smile thinking of all heartwarming, hilarious and humbling conversations I've had.
Comments