Mandy Nash

I discovered feltmaking over twenty years ago - it is a wonderful, tactile, diverse and sustainable material.

Q&A

Artist Statement

I set up my workshop in 1983 after leaving the Royal College of Art. In 1990 I established my studio in Model House Craft and Design Centre in Llantrisant. I work primarily in anodised aluminium producing one off and batch production jewellery. As the material is light and not too expensive I can make large, bold pieces which are both wearable and affordable. Most importantly, by anodising it, I can achieve bright and brilliant colour effects.My three passions are colour, pattern and technique. I love making things and exploring the possibilities of different materials. Although I trained as a jeweller, my work has been heavily influenced by both traditional and contemporary textiles. Over the last twenty years I have also been developing work in felt. I combine this with my jewellery practice to create both functional pieces and work that is purely decorative.Much of my recent work has evolved from looking back at my creative ancestry. It was my grandmothers who initiated my fascination with making objects. They passed on their traditional textile skills and started my passion for creating anything from colourful materials.In 2010, I received an Arts Council of Wales grant to help me purchase a laser cutter which enabled me to develop new work. I have used this to explore different materials such as taffeta, acrylic, cardboard and wood. This has opened up many exciting possibilities both for my jewellery and textile work.I am involved in many craft groups and associations. I am regional co-ordinator and Chair of the International Feltmakers Association. I am a member of the Makers Guild in Wales, of the Association of Contemporary Jewellery and of MaP, a textile group.I have exhibited widely in the UK, Europe, Japan, USA and Canada.

What craft do you work with?

A friend recommended that I tried making felt – I did and I was hooked. That was over twenty years ago. I enjoy experimenting with 3D and sculptural forms.

What inspires you to work with this craft?

The feltmaking process is slow and mediative. Wool is a sustainable material and is underused. I enjoy exploring the different characteristics of wool breeds.

How do you start your creative process?

I sketch, make models and samples. I enjoy the experimental and design process. When an idea works well, it is a fantastic feeling although it is frustrating when the samples don’t go according to plan.

How would you best describe your workspace and what tools could you not do without?

Untidy with wonderful light – and my hands are my best tools.

Are there new techniques you would like to try?

I am constantly experimenting; currently exploring origami techniques in felt and using multiple resists to create £D effects.

What have you learnt or the best advice you have received that you would like to share with fellow crafters?

You’re only as good as your last piece of work so you have to continue the journey. I will continue to make until I am unable to do so.