I am a professional artist working mostly in textiles and found materials, making embroideries, fabric montages and driftwood assemblages. I have recently resumed printmaking. For many years I have exhibited my work at the Burton Art Gallery where I am best known for my hand painted silk ties and scarves. My inspiration comes from the sea and the natural world as well as the making process itself and I enjoy making work with animal themes.
Studio visits by arrangement. Commissions welcome.
- Email: rachelsumner@dsl.pipex.com
- Website: http://www.rachelsumner.org
I originate from rural Northamptonshire. I successfully completed a foundation course at Northampton College of Art followed by a degree in Fine Art Painting at Maidstone College of Art, graduating in the 1980s.
Over the years, I have developed a strong interest in textiles and it was this that lead on to my becoming a professional artist when I returned to England in 1998, after living in France. Having started with the more painterly technique of painting on silk producing exclusive ties and scarves, my work has broadened and developed into embroideries and mixed media pieces. I also work with found objects and driftwood which is gathered from local beaches, making boat sculptures and seascapes from life’s flotsam and jetsam.
My work is mostly figurative, featuring land and seascapes with animal themes and a touch of humour.
I work from my studio in Northam doing mostly work for exhibitions and commissions.
South-west galleries that show my work include; The Burton Art Gallery, Bideford; Mid Cornwall Galleries, Par; Lantic Gallery, Tiverton and Cotehele Gallery nr Saltash.
2 Clifton Terrace
Northam
Bideford
EX39 1EA
T.01237 425912
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