Bridget West 

In a world of the mass produced for the consumer driven, my work springs from a desire for original, often quirky, pieces using ethically sourced, recycled and found materials. Ideas often present themselves from the actual materials ; a skein of wool cries out to be a scarf , worked with another skein long treasured; that retro fabric sample can only be part of a bag or a cushion. A family occasion prompts the need for that special, highly personal momento , be it wedding, christening or special anniversary. Images from family albums with their touching history become starting points for individual items.

 

Textiles have always played an important part in my life. Having learned to knit at seven , I have never been without a project of some kind. Since forced early retirement from teaching, I have had the time to develop my work and as a part of the collaboration of designer makers, Material Things, am reaching a wider audience. Although my work is in some ways highly personal, I do try to keep abreast of current trends. It is important to me to produce pieces that may be useful, may serve a purpose, but that are essentially beautifully crafted with a certain unique individuality.