Making stories
"Every piece of work I make has a story behind it.
- why did I make it ?
- and how did I make it ?
follow the chapters of my making, from my training as a maker to my current work."
About helen
helen edwards is a mixed media textile artist based in South Devon working from her studio in the small ancient wool town of Chudleigh.
Influenced by the creativity of her Belgian mother and grandmother, helen acquired textile skills, an appreciation of colour, natural materials and a love of the outdoors, all at a young age.
After 21 years working as a speech and language therapist for the NHS, helen retrained in B-tech level 3 Art and Design and a Foundation degree in Integrated Craft, gaining distinctions in both. This training allowed her to amalgamate skills in art and design, photography, ceramics, metals and textiles.
Using textile techniques, helen works with various materials including paper, ceramic, natural fibres and metals, to create both functional pieces and more unusual exhibition pieces.
Each piece made is designed and constructed entirely by helen.
Current work
Exhibitions & awards
Exhibitions:
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New Designers, London,
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Designer Crafts 2010, 2013 Mall Galleries, London
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Summer Exhibition 2010–14, 2019, 2022-3, MAKE Southwest
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Present Makers, Thelma Hulbert Gallery, Devon
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Spring Art, Red Earth Gallery, Devon
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South West Academy Open, Exeter
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Doddiscombsleigh Art Show, Devon
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Going Full Circle, Walford Mill, Dorset
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a life illustrated - sketchbooks MAKE Southwest
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THG Open 2016, Thelma Hulbert Gallery, Honiton
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Wonderworks 2016 and 2022, Chagford, Devon
Awards:
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Member of MAKE Southwest
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Member of Society of Designer Craftsmen (2009–2016)
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Pewter Live Neish award and Decorative Arts award
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President's Prize: MAKE Southwest, Make a Mark exhibition