Woodland Wool: Long Winter Nights

11/4/17

Long Winter Nights

Happy to be a part of this group show for Avon River Arts, formerly the Hants County Arts Council.

Over the past year this group of Nova Scotian artists and artisans has been hosting a number of events in the area and this is our sixth time showing as a group at the Bread Gallery in Brooklyn, Hants County.

Last night we had a packed house for the opening and it was great to catch up with many creative folks who we had not seen in some time. If you missed the opening, not to worry, the show continues until December 31st.

This year's collection features work by:
Kelly Mitchelmore
Tacha Reed
Elizabeth Robinson
Sue Robinsons
Karen Harvie
Jonathan Charles Trenholm
Mary Lou Bennett
Stuart Taylor
Ruth Ross
Christene Sandeson
Rose Marie MacDonald
Nick Haentjens
Michelle Heron
Lexie Barkhouse
Terrie Greencorn
Brian Fraser
Anne Clattenburg

Her Majesty, Tacha Reed, 2017

Glimpse of the Fault, Tacha Reed, 2017

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Working in the arts has always been in the cards for me. After a childhood filled with time spent creating using what ever materials available, it was no surprise that by the age of seven I was firmly committed to living the life of an artist as I grew up.

After attending specialized art classes as a teen, I began my post secondary education studying photography and digital imaging, before shifting my focus towards graphic design, printmaking and film studies, eventually receiving a BFA from the Nova Scotia College of Art and Design in 2003.

Upon graduation I began teaching art to elementary students, and for over two decades I have continued to work as a freelance photographer and designer, collaborating with many musicians, entrepreneurs and not-for-profit organizations.

Since relocating to the tiny community of Ellershouse over a decade ago, my artistic practice has grown to include the creation of tactile fine artworks and products that make use of natural and recycled materials. These days I primarily create using wool from local British milking sheep raised in Avondale, which I carefully hand dye prior to transforming the fibre into vibrant felted wall hangings and functional items like hats and purses.

After taking on the role of facility manager for the Avon River Heritage Society Museum in 2013, the tidal river that surrounds the historic waterfront park became an ongoing source of inspiration for my artwork, especially evident in my 2019 felted series ADAPT, my graphic print Year of the Salmon, and the corresponding installation Ghost Salmon, which was placed along Simpson's Creek in Newport Landing in June of 2019.

When I'm not working or creating I continue to pass along my skills and knowledge by leading fibre art workshops and demonstrations, and by actively volunteering with groups like the Avon River Arts Society and the Full Circle Festival, organizing cultural events and activities.