Amanda Haran is swiftly making a name for herself in the textile art scene in the UK from her Derbyshire base. Her hand-sewn and free machine embroidery and unique and intricate designs have caught the attention of community collaborative art enthusiasts and textile lovers alike. In this exclusive interview, we delve into Amanda Haran’s creative process, inspiration, community engagement and journey as a rising star in the textile art world.
Amanda Haran, can you tell us a bit about yourself and how you got started in textile art?
“I have always been fascinated by textiles and reusing objects from a young age. I remember spending hours making Sindy doll clothes, trying to create beautiful garments from fabric scraps decorated with embroidery. This early exposure and being a member of the Horrocks’ famous weaving clan sparked my interest in textile art. I guess it was in my genes and inevitable. I began experimenting with different techniques and materials and joined many courses to deepen my knowledge. Over time, I developed my own style and unique approach to creating textile art. I also added psychotherapy to my repertoire so that I could better understand the groups and overlooked communities I was working with. Textile art is twofold – it’s a personal creative journey I must go through to be whole and who I am. But also something I need to share and teach, collaborating with community groups. I love to see the joy it can bring in others if they’re just given the chance and support to try this art form.”
What inspires your work as a textile artist?
“I find inspiration in nature, rubbish, and everyday objects. I love recycling. reusing and repurposing objects found in the world around me and incorporating them into my designs. I have been known to rummage in bins or pick items up from the pavement. I’ve been lucky to travel. I draw inspiration from traditional textile techniques and embroidery styles from the cultures I encounter, which I reinterpret in a contemporary way.”
How would you describe your creative process?
“My creative process is very intuitive and experimental. I have a base structure such as a handkerchief, a section of an old blanket or a carrier bag. I then begin collaging with different found objects, materials, textures, and techniques to bring my vision to life. Often, this is a response to how I’m feeling at that time, a sort of therapy. I enjoy the tactile nature of textiles and their endless possibilities for creating unique and one-of-a-kind pieces.”
What sets your work apart from other textile artists in the UK?
“I think what sets my work apart is my dedication to pushing the boundaries of traditional textile art. I enjoy experimenting with unconventional materials and techniques to create unexpected and innovative designs. I also place a strong emphasis on craftsmanship and attention to detail, ensuring that each piece is meticulously crafted and of the highest quality. I want to show that making great art does not need much money or expensive materials. Just borrow a needle, nip down to the charity shop, ask to be gifted some odds and ends from a crafter’s stash, and reuse the things around you.”
As a rising star in the textile art scene, what are your goals for the future?
“My ultimate goal is to continue growing as an artist and pushing the boundaries of textile art. I hope to exhibit my work in galleries and museums around the world and collaborate with other artists and communities. I also aim to inspire and mentor the next generation of textile artists, encouraging them to explore their creativity and express themselves through textiles.”
In conclusion, Amanda Haran is a talented and innovative textile artist in the UK whose personal and contemporary community textile artist work continues to captivate audiences with its unique style and creative approach. As she continues to rise in the community textile art scene, we expect to see more exciting and experimental designs from this emerging artist.
For more information, visit:
Contemporary Community Textile Artist | Amanda Haran
https://www.amandaharan.co.uk/
Collaborative Community Textile Artist Specialising In Embroidery, Weaving, Wellness And The Therapeutic Repurposing Of Items – Carbon Literate
Step into a world of community creativity, engaging projects, being stronger together, and inspiration with Amanda Haran. Explore more about Amanda Haran on amandaharan.co.uk. Prepare to be captivated.
For more information on textile artist uk contact:
Contemporary Community Textile Artist | Amanda Haran
https://www.amandaharan.co.uk/
Collaborative Community Textile Artist Specialising In Embroidery, Weaving, Wellness And The Therapeutic Repurposing Of Items – Carbon Literate
Step into a world of community creativity, engaging projects, being stronger together, and inspiration with Amanda Haran. Explore more about Amanda Haran at amandaharan.co.uk. Prepare to be captivated.
