Caroline Nixon

ecoprint. botanical contact print. natural dyes. wearble art
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Region: 
Chipping Norton - North & West
Artform: 
Textiles

I work with natural dyes and botanical contact printing ( ecoprinting ) a contemporary adaptation of the ancient art of dyeing with plant based pigments. Using this technique I craft wall art, home textiles and wearable art, capturing the beauty of nature by using the pigments imprints and chemistry of the leaves themselves – no synthetic ink, dyes or silk screens are involved. Shibori techniques and colour blocking by means of carrier cloths add pattern and texture. Hand and free machine stitch are extensively used for embellishment, producing complex patterned cloth. The naturally occurring colours are soft and harmonious, and the process is non polluting and respectful of the environment.

My inspiration comes from nature itself, working with seasonally available materials and letting the shapes of the leaves determine mydesigns. Specific folding techniques allow symmetry, mirroring and repetition.

The plants and dyes come from sustainable  sources - many are grown in my own garden. The smallest change in plant species, climatic conditions water source or printing technique can produce variations in the  prints, meaning every item is unique. Essentially these are monoprints. A magical combination of art, science and serendipity.

The textiles used are natural fibres, organically produced and ethically sourced wherever possible. Vintage textiles are also upcycled, giving them a new lease of life. Much of the linen and lace is sourced from French brocantes. The cooking pots used for processing are also recycled - copper preserving pans, cast iron laundry pots, aluminium cooking pots. The antithesis of today’s ‘throwaway’ society.

Venue

Wise Investment
The Great Barn - Chalford Park Barns, Oxford Road
Chipping Norton
OX7 5QR
Telephone: 
07557 022531
Instagram: 
Email: 
caroline.nixon@btinternet.com
Facilities available: 
Accessible for Wheelchairs, Refreshments, Parking, Workshop/Class Teacher

Opening Dates and Times

May 2024
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Times: 
10 am - 5 pm

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