Growing up in a small seaside town, I have always been hugely inspired by and sought comfort in the beach. I was constantly aware of the enormous sense of inter-dependency in my town, and appreciated the value of a tight knit community.

In recent research for my dissertation during my time at Dundee University, I began exploring both traditional and contemporary knitting groups. I developed huge interest into the subject, and after a great deal of reading and attending of groups, it was the similar feeling of inter-dependency that really intrigued me. These women rely on these groups and one another, and as individual units they have reinvented knitting into a huge new phenomenon. I wanted to also celebrate this rebirth of craft, and explore the idea of community and grouping in my practical work.

Through visual research and fabric development I based my work on these close-knit fishing communities and both traditional and contemporary knitting groups. I have used connotations from these groupings such as gathering, linking, stringing and looping as inspiration. Using the seashore as my starting point for photography and drawings seemed only natural to me, especially as it is also a communal meeting ground, and an area of recreational fun.

Using single, double, dubied and passap knitting machines/techniques, I have produced a body of knitted interior textiles. I use a selection of high quality yarns including, cashmere and lambswool, to give warmth and comfort. My collection of textiles, photography and drawings can be used for a range of products, from cushions and throws to screens and wallpaper.

For any additional information, inquires or comments please feel free to contact Elise by e-mail.