Summer School 2009

Building with stitches over hollow 3D objects enables us to cast with threads and cloth. During the course we will build hollow sculptures using mohair and jersey fabrics; the results will be experimental but the stitches will initially be basic – running and back stitch. Later we can richly darn these forms and embellish them or join contrasting elements including found objects to them. The joy of this method is that you can cast anything (even a light bulb!) to make a vessel, jewellery or sculpture. This course is about intuitive making and hand stitching; together we will build with threads tactile objects which will take on a life of their own.

Gavin Fry studied embroidery at Goldsmiths College and after working in the fashion industry later trained at the Royal College of Art. He has exhibited widely including with Prism and the Practical Study Group and is a hand embroiderer. Gavin is a senior tutor with Opus School of Textile Arts teaching at degree and masterclass level. He uses marine biology and music/poetry as inspiration, employing a collage approach within both his sketchbooks and stitched works, believing that an intuitive approach flows freely following good research. His works are densely worked and small but rich in texture and colour.