Gemma Clewer
I am currently working on a series of 2D mixed media drawings which form the basis of the surface designs on my ceramic vases.
Debra Tatham
Moors Rugs, Debra Tatham (2005)
My work is about materials. I am fascinated with the scope which each different media offers.
Having produced textile work based around memories and bereavement I have graduated away from sentiment and toward the materials themselves. I am very interested in recycling, making patchwork and rugs out of plastic bags and other discarded objects.
Having been trained in ceramics I took aspects of this forward into papier mache and gesso. I enjoyed producing tiny, refined vessels as well as large sculptures, pushing this flexible medium to its limits. I am still engaged with this process and will probably always return to it.
Whilst working commercially with papier mache allowed me to become highly skilled, lately I have moved toward textiles. I love found materials: they inspire me whatever they are, from cashmere sweaters to old tights. By combining materials from many sources it is possible to make beautiful, tactile objects out of old rubbish.