What do you do and what are you most proud of in your making/designing history?
As an established textile artist, I design and make custom dyed and hand woven rugs and wall hangings for public and private collections. I blend traditional weaving and dyeing techniques with contemporary design style. I am most proud to have received several awards including the Theo Moorman Trust Bursary Award for Weavers. My work is in many private collections in the UK and internationally. Major public commissions include weaving for Westminster Abbey, York Minster and the British Library.
Where do you work and what materials do you prefer/get most inspired by?
Each hand woven rug / wall hanging is carefully made in my weaving studio in historic York using natural and durable materials including wool, cotton and linen. I love the methodical process of weaving and really enjoy working with colour, pattern and texture to create luxurious textiles that are both decorative and functional.
What do think will be important or significant for craft practice in general in the future?
I think crafts made by hand will become more appreciated and valuable with the increased use of digital technology and artificial mechanisation. Hopefully, designers and makers throughout the world will use innovation and develop more environmentally friendly processes and choose to use sustainable materials. I feel it is important to ensure that traditional, heritage craft skills, techniques and tools are valued, shared, supported and preserved throughout the world.
What are your own aspirations for the next five years?
I am excited to explore and develop new processes for using natural plant dyes in my woven designs. I will continue to work in partnership with interior designers and architects in the UK and internationally, to create bespoke commissions for distinctive interiors and collaborate on projects with other artists and makers.
Jacqueline has been a member of Design-Nation incorporating Design Factory since 2016.