Ann Nazareth

My work is informed by creation stories and folk tales. Using tapestry to interpret these themes led me to basket making techniques which enabled me to produce
3-D images. I devised a method using twining which allows the images to be hollow and flexible.

Using wire or paper yarn gives me a flexibility which I have not found in other materials, as I prefer to work on smaller pieces. Being able to handle the pieces is important to me, especially those made in paper yarn, they are pliant and warm and infinitely tactile.

Making baskets allows me to experiment with a variety of materials while working in traditional techniques. I recycle wire and strapping tape when possible and sometimes combine these with natural materials. I made a series of baskets which utilised electric cable and cane and recently made a number of baskets from telephone wire, which were inspired by the South African 'imbenge'. I have also used this technique to make small baskets with enamelled copper wire and beads.

TRAINING
2001 2-year Creative Basketry Course, City Literary Institute, London
1999 BA(Hons) Constructed Textiles, Middlesex University
1996 Diploma in Decorative Art, Camberwell School of Art