Helen O’Leary
St Leonards on Sea, East Sussex, UK
Sewing is in my blood - it is this and parts of my family history and experience that influence my work. After working in knitwear and fashion I returned to university to study art but escape textiles it wasn’t to be and my textile work is now my art.
Inspiration comes from overheard conversations, country walks, just staring at the sea. Rummaging through old pieces of lace is heaven for me. Galleries of old pictures and dusty junk shops and museums are my idea of a great day out. Fine lace knittng with silver plated copper wire is the basis of much of my work along with worn rubbed and dyed fine silk fabric. I complete my work with its presentation to add to its story.
Photographs: Ian O’Leary