Artist Statement

Helen Meakin

Helen Meakin studied Woven Textile Design at Loughborough University, graduating in 2005. Since then she has been working to produce individual pieces woven in wire and silk to create interior panels that are beautifully textural and light reflecting. Beads and sequins are woven in to add texture and interest and these also attract the light and reflect colours. Each design is hand woven and completely unique and she never reproduces the same patterns. Her inspiration comes from the environment around her. Colour combinations that catch the eye, reflections in water and glass, interesting structures and shapes all bring about new ideas in design.

Another aspect of Helen’s textile art is her embroidery pieces in brightly coloured floral designs. These are mainly produced on commission as she can match the colour scheme to the requirements of her customer. She uses water-soluble pens and inks to draw out her design and then transfers her image onto fabric to stitch into. Each design is individual and unique and Helen can fit in the size and scale of the flowers to her customers’ specification.

Now Helen is working in a studio at Banks’ Mill she can develop her textiles further; looking into uses for her woven wire designs such as room screens or dividers, lamp shades and interior accessories; and with the support system in place from fellow designers and makers and from the experienced staff she is positive and confident with her work progression.

 

Exhibitions