What’s your background?
Born in Yorkshire, I moved away as a child but returned to study textiles in Huddersfield and, later, at Bretton Hall. I’m now based in Newcastle where I stitch and work as an artist in the community.
Explain what you do in 100 words
I use fabric and thread to capture the beauty and variety of the British landscape – whether it is the coast, the countryside or built environment. I use hand dyed fabrics to convey the colour and texture of scenery that captures my attention on my travels around the country. Working from sketchbook studies I build up fabric collages and add detail with machine and hand embroidery. People are often surprised to discover that my artwork is not painted – I would say that I ‘paint’ with the fabric!
Arran Breeze
What five words best describe your work?
Joyful, colourful, personal, engaging, playful.
What are you working on at the moment?
In my own work; a large coastal piece inspired by the rocky shoreline around St Abbs Head and sketch book ideas inspired by the Hoppings Funfair here in Newcastle and Carters Traditional Steam Fair. I am also doing arts in health work and a community project with a primary school; working with the children to create a school banner that reflects the history of their mining community. (I like to keep busy!)
Which three artists most inspire you?
Joan Eardley for texture and subject matter; Sonia Delaunay for combining art and textiles; Marc Chagall for colour and storytelling.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given?
Use your sketchbook every day!
Stonechat Land
Favourite or most inspirational place in Yorkshire
I love going to the Staithes Festival of Arts and Heritage each September. To be anywhere on the Yorkshire coast is always a joy. Oh, and the landscape at Brimham Rocks is just startling!
Tell us something we don’t know
I have a ‘touring’ caravan called ‘Minnie the Monza’ but she’s not been touring for ages as she’s stuck in my back yard!
