Debbie Brown (3D)

I would describe myself as primarily, but not solely, a textile artist, having graduated from the University of Ulster in 1990 with a degree in Fine Craft Design, with my specialism in embroidery.

Growing up in Northern Ireland amongst rolling hills and compelling countryside, I developed at an early age a great passion for natural history and the outdoors which strongly influence my work, both in subject matter and in the materials I choose to create it: I enjoy exploring unusual combinations of materials and techniques, frequently using recycled or found resources from the environment around me to make small and often delicate forms. I have an interest in finding methods of using traditional craft techniques in new and contemporary ways, and relish the challenge posed in working with natural materials that change as they age and that are technically difficult to manipulate.

Often I create my own surfaces on which to work, for example making felt by hand using dyed wools, which can then be embellished using needle-felting, the addition of other fabrics, embroidery and beadwork. Staying true to my roots I use stitch a great deal, whether I am working with paper, fabrics, metals or other materials, often as a means of creating structure rather than just for decoration, and naturally favour working in three dimensions.

I also enjoy producing work to commission and the process of giving consideration to a particular space, its use, and who occupies it.

Please select Textiles to view more of Debbie’s work.