Jackie Bennett
Tapestry maker
Lewes, United Kingdom
Weaving ideas
- Jackie uses her tapestries as a platform for ideas
- Fibres provide an emotional resonance for her
- She held a virtual exhibition in Canada, which was a highlight
The early stages of Jackie Bennett’s tapestry weaving career saw her make her own weaving frame and teaching herself the craft from a small booklet. Experimental in approach, she worked in various materials, dyeing her own yarns. Inspiration came from the textile artist Frances Geeson, who taught her macramé and fabric collage. Her love for the craft comes from being able to get hands-on with materials such as fibre, clay and wood. Eventually, she specialised in woven textiles, training in traditional tapestry weaving rather than cloth weaving. Her artistic nature brings out a need to express ideas through her woven pieces, rather than producing functional items. Her first piece was a view of the town of Lewes, of red-brick houses and Lewes Castle.
INTERVIEW
I have been working in several styles for the past few years. Traditional tapestry weaving, which is densely packed to make a thick fabric, and lighter, airy woven pieces that were inspired by the weaving of Tadek Beutlich. I also make 3-D pieces.
Going on walks, visiting exhibitions, and researching health and well-being. My work is often connected to nature, trees, wildflowers and grasses. I am particularly inspired by the amazing fibre art of Tadek Beutlich, who lived in southeast England.
I weave both intuitively and in response to my designs and sources of inspiration. The techniques are traditional, but the designs are innovative. My choice of fibre – such as cotton, hemp or jute – depends on the textural effects I use to bring about a connection and emotional resonance.
Despite the challenges of Covid-19, I have been able to exhibit in both the UK and Canada. Attending the opening event in Vancouver virtually, presenting my work there was a highlight as I wouldn’t have been able to attend in person and meet the other weavers.
3 EXPERIENCES
