Constructed Textile Artist: Through my work I hope to challenge the traditional concept of the craft of knitting. Of all the textile art processes, knitting is generally perceived as a folksy, domestic activity, something grandma does. However, it is now seen as a trendy craft with Madonna and other "celebs" proud to be seen doing it! This is quite a cultural leap.

Knitting is a fantastically adaptable and responsive medium and for me has amazing potential for contemporary expression. From a textile that is used for clothing it is not a difficult intellectual or creative leap to consider its potential as a pure art medium capable of competing on equal terms with tapestry, embroidery and appliqué wall art. I was so curious as to why knitting had not been exploited fully by other artists, that I decided to spend two years researching the potential and properties of natural yarns using both machine and hand knitting techniques. I dyed before and after construction, bleached out, felted and experimented with applied surface texture. Studying for a Masters Degree in 1995/6 in constructed textiles at Middlesex University enabled me to find my voice and a means of expression that has completely absorbed me. Following this, my work was shown in the New Artists/Designers exhibition at the London Design Centre.


C. Archeri octopus stinkhorn, strange French funghi
machine knitted, part dyed in pure new wool

I exhibited at London's Battersea, Affordable Art Fair. The selectors responded to the sponsoring Gallery's application by specifically commenting on my work, saying that it was really original and supported their intention to move away from the more predictable exhibits in their Fairs. This was my inaugural sales exposure and attracted considerable interest. Natasha Kaplinsky, BBC Newscaster requested my contact details and subsequently purchased a piece of my work. She described my work as "beautiful and unusual". I have shown annually in the Leigh Art Trail, a contemporary Open Studios Event that has the support of the Arts Council. This event has received National Press recognition in London's Time Out Guide and the Evening Standard. I, and my work have featured in many magazine and press articles. My work has also been included in exhibitions at the Southend Library, Southend Art Gallery and Southend's DesignFront04. I am featured in the book East Anglian Places, ISBN 978-0-9558147-2-3.
I take my inspiration from the natural yarns and materials I use, my structures and imagery are drawn from the context of the natural world. I am currently experimenting with constructing knitted fabric into 3D organic forms. My main creative influences are Andy Goldsworthy and Craigie Aitchison.