Craft Celebrity Post No. 2: Julie Arkell
Julie Arkell’s work is wonderfully whimsical. Commonly referred to as a “folk artist” her papier mache embroidered creations are unrivalled in their uniqueness. Everything is made by hand (no machines!) in her London studio and adorned with ribbons, buttons and anything else she can find. Importantly, every one is completely different. She hand embroiderers their clothes and with the help of her mum knits trimmings for them.
Born in London in 1955 she has now exhibited all over the country. She currently has an exhibition at the Bluecoat in Liverpool which is well worth a visit!
Her creatures are often humanoid animals. They seem to tell a story and have such a sense of fun about them. The papier mache effect of them often makes them look vintage and as if they have their own histories.
As of yet she still doesn’t have a website, I feel this makes her more elusive and mysterious.
“I love to make things with materials which have ‘seen life’; embroidering
words and stories onto old cloth, stitching into books and paper, repairing, darning,
making dolls, toys, jewellery and objects of eccentricity.”
“I have always loved to make things using accessible materials like paper, glue, cardboard, fabric and wool, which relate to my papermache pieces. I am able to make pieces that express my feelings, thoughts and ideas, bringing past and present together.”
