In 1986 I set out to make a living from making functional baskets with homegrown material, this was an under valued concept at the time.  My goal was to make this practise a real job, I wanted its income to pay a mortgage and to support any children I might have and this, I am happy to say, I have achieved.  

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My creative journey began at Hereford Art College in 1980 where I completed a Foundation Diploma in Contemporary Craft.  I went on to do a degree in woven textiles at West Surry College of Art and design but left feeling as though I still hadn’t found my calling.  I loved weaving but needed more.  During my research for my thesis I came across an interesting maker called David Drew. He was making baskets from willow he had grown himself and with his wife Judy living a sustainable life in a beautifully renovated cob house in Somerset.  I visited and I was hooked.  

 

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Funded by the Crafts Council I took up an apprenticeship with David for one year.  I am indebted to him and Judy whose expert knowledge and respect for the environment had a fundamental impact on my career choice and way of life. This experience transformed my awareness of this ancient craft and I became deeply inspired to live the life of a basket maker. 

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I built a practice rooted in the total involvement in the whole process, from the very first planting to the finished piece, I have submerged my creative energies into understanding the effects of the seasons, the elements, the husbandry, the varieties of willow and a wide range of traditional techniques so that as a maker I remain connected to my material, my environment and to the heritage of my craft. With this depth of connection I aim to create pieces that are functional but innovative whilst retaining a deep react for the traditions of this practise. 

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Over the years I have supplied many Craft Council selected galleries, have featured in many leading interior magazines, have pieces in a number of collections and have been selected to make many items for film. I have sold online, through craft fairs and directly to the customer from the door. 

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I continue to enjoy teaching at all levels in both growing and making with willow. Nothing gives me more pleasure than to introduce a newcomer to the delights of willow or to help resolve ongoing problems for the keen amateur or professional. 

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The most rewarding part of my career has been to introduce my daughter to willow. Starting to weave at around the age of 11 Issy is now the founder of a company called Willow With Roots.  www.willowwithroots.co.uk  We began working together in 2018.  She learned quickly and with her theatre background went on to develop a willow company rooted in her passion for heritage, collaboration and large scale projects.   I’m a very proud Mum.  As a grandmother I am excited to see how this practise might make its way into a third generation.  Fingers crossed, watch this space. 

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Today, I’m pleasantly surprised to find that my passion for my craft is still strong.  I continue to love all aspects of this job and look forward to continuing to grow and make in a small piece of paradise in North Herefordshire, UK.