Anna Heslop

I have been on a very long creative journey. My first love was in design, specifically fashion and costume. I am drawn to contrasts, whether it be colour, texture, form, or shape. These elements have always guided my creativity in many disciplines. Until recently I\'ve been exploring the medium of ceramics. I fell in love with the whole process of using clay to produce sculptural forms. I found the slow process of refining the pieces gave me a real sense of calm and peace. Currently I am going back to my earlier medium of textiles. Whilst completing my teaching qualification I fell in love with free machine embroidery. I am working on art pieces that tell a story, based on religious relic pieces. I am also developing a range of wearable collars using reclaimed fabrics and brooches. I have been fortunate to be able to immerse myself in my work at the moment, being able to do this is giving my work more depth and richness. I am focusing on the visual and three dimensional qualities of mostly birds, fish, and flowers to evoke messages and feelings of love, renewal, inner strength, and the simple beauty found in nature. My ceramics, textiles, and prints will be on display at my shared Open Studio this June with Soizick Freeman at the Old Well Studio in Shamley Green.