PAINTING ON SILK – an ancient art and contemporary inspiration

Painting on silk is an ancient art, practised by the Chinese for calligraphy and painting since 5000 BC – long before they had paper.

In Japan it also developed into a highly skilled artform, displayed on stunning kimono and folding room screens.
I continue to be fascinated by the way vibrant dyes flow through silk, and the lustre and depth of colour revealed after steam-fixing the finished work.

I mostly use hot wax with a tjanting or brush to direct the flow of colour – always a challenge as this medium has a mind of its own! This means that each piece I work on is unique.
Paintings are built up in layers from any white markings, through pale colours to dark. After steam-fixing and hand washing the silk, most paintings are framed by me.
I also produce wearable art such as long scarves, hand rolling the hems for a quality finish.
Inspiration for my work comes from the hedgerows and landscapes of Cumbria, Scotland, and other wild places. As a keen walker it is a real privilege to live in such a beautiful area.