Vivienne Beaumont:
Artists Statement
I have found my artistic identity using symbolism, cloth and thread. The ephemerality and cyclical nature of life is at the core of my textile practice. I use archetypal imagery to convey collective emotions, referencing the figurative, the mythological, nature, and the theme of transformation. Harvest, seeds and pomegranates represent both life force and loss. I like to explore the commonality between us and also the cultural collective memory. I use machine embroidery and print to tell personal and universal stories.
Groups
The Society of Designer Makers.
https://societyofdesignercraftsmen.org.uk
Prism Textile Group
https://www.prismtextiles.co.uk
The Textile Study Group
Katie from Arnold's Attic filmed me talking about my work at the Knitting and Stitching Show 2022.
https://www.facebook.com/ArnoldsAttic/ / https://www.arnolds-attic.co.uk / https://www.instagram.com/arnolds_attic/
About:
Drawing and design are key to my practice. Seeing and looking, then editing, composing and interpreting. Most important for me, is a need to refine, to step away and come back to see anew. I always start with a drawing, which I then develop with Photoshop. I transfer my drawing / design onto fabric with printing methods. I like the serendipity and creativity that I can generate by handling the fabric, cutting and collaging fabrics to allow creative changes.
I originally studied Fine Art and have been an art teacher for many years. In 1995, with a move to Shropshire, I found Westhope College, where I was able to do City and Guilds textile courses. I was fortunate to be taught by Linda Kemshall, Bobby Britnell and the late, much missed, Marie Roper. I was awarded a medal of excellence from City and Guilds. Wanting a change of life style and to do my own art work, I retired from teaching at Shrewsbury High School to do an MA at Hereford College of Art. I really enjoyed doing the MA, it helped me to better understand my motivations and helped me to establish my artistic identity.
‘Art is nothing but the expression of our dream; the more we surrender to it, the closer we get to the inner truth of things, our dream life, the true life that scorns questions and does not see them.’ Franz Marc