Chance to Skill Up at Art Workshops

Fabric artist, Maxine Smith, has launched a series of workshops to give budding local artists the chance to create their own unique pieces of textile art.

The first workshop will take place on Saturday 5 March, 10am - 3.30pm at Radbrook Community Centre, Shrewsbury.

Workshop places cost £45 and can be booked by calling 07792 737275 or emailing [email protected].

The workshops, entitled 'Magical Gardens in Needle-felting and embroidery' are based on Maxine's love of Shropshire's natural environment.

'I take my inspiration from the county's dramatic landscapes, hillsides and hedgerows' says Maxine.

The Shrewsbury-based artist uses a barbed needle to sculpt and fuse wool and other natural fibres into pictures depicting poppy fields, sheep on a hillside or daisies growing in a hedgerow, adding detail with embroidery and beading.

'I exhibit my work locally and online and set up the workshops after many people asked me how I turn a pile of wool, silk and threads into pieces of art. It's an ideal craft to share at a workshop because it's so tactile and, with help, anybody can create a beautiful piece of work' Maxine explains.

The workshops are part of the former charity worker's new business, Tilly Tea Dance, set up last year following the birth of her son.
'I'm a lifelong textile artist and becoming a mum has given me the opportunity to turn my interest into a business' says Maxine.

Maxine is currently exhibiting her work at Shropshire Hills Discovery Centre, Craven Arms.