Barbara works primarily with Australian Merino wool and fine silks, creating surface design and depth of colour and texture through the wet felting process; a magical process achieved with only water and soap. There is an element of risk and of serendipity and the pleasure of working directly with the hands.
The addition of stitch, layering in the tradition of quilt making offers another dimension. And the transformation to wearable art and 3D vessels brings further possibilities.
Textiles can soften and enhance our living environment. Wool is a superior fibre; natural, renewable, biodegradable, flame-resistant and hygroscopic, so the perfect base layer to wear.
Barbara's Art Cloth is delightfully light and soft, appears delicate, but is strong and resilient.
Her artistic style can be best described as abstract impressionism.
Barbara has lived in Geographe Bay since 2019. Time out to explore the rich natural diversity within WA offers inspirational colours and textures. Understatement. After a full lifespan in the Northern hemisphere each new experience makes a great impact on the soul of an artist seeking to capture and communicate the essence of the place. The quiet places within the Wheatbelt and the Goldfields hold as much treasure as the more breathtaking Kimberley. The remoteness of Lake Ballard inspired recent work. Nearer to home our Cape to Cape coast offers experiences that can be as changeable as the weather and make one feel fully alive.
What do Artists do all day? At day break in my studio, cup of tea in hand to survey the options. Some rhythmic stitching to feel the mood. What must I do to progress. Push away the failures of what didn't work. Press on with what feels good.
Barbara has been working with Textiles over five decades, teaching and exhibiting in the UK and Internationally. Contemporary quilt making has been a major focus; the diverse methods of colouring cloth a continuing passion.
Barbara is a member of the OZQuilt network, WAFTA, the International Felt Makers Association, Bunbury Felting Group and an Honorary Life member of the Quilters Guild of the British Isles.
Her textile, 'Pomegranate' was selected for the Busselton Art Award in 2021.
Currently her quilt 'Underfoot' is touring with the OZQuilt Network Australia Wide 9 and 'Lake Ballard' is touring with the WAQA Stitched and Bound.