Louisa Ruthven

Blue Route

I am an artist working in textile, paint and stitch to tell nature’s stories. I am deeply committed to the land and the duality of its permanence and fragility. I strive in my work to reflect both that delicacy and strength.

Behind the Scenes
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About My Practice

I walk every day in all weathers, sometimes sketching, but always absorbing the land and the elements. I am inspired by the ‘melancholy transience’ of nature and the ancient memories held in the land. Back in my garden studio I use these influences to make textile landscapes and studies. My creative practice forms a record of the natural world that I live in. Recent work has focused on the salt marshes, goose migration and seashells. I’m passionate about the creative possibilities of textile art and its experimental opportunities.

Tools & Materials

My training as a costume interpreter led me to be curious and inventive. I use any combination of fabric, paper, ink, paint, wax and dye and will print, dye, paint, stitch, grate, burn, distress, tear – even bury – to get the effects I want. I mark make with both free motion embroidery and hand stitching to create textile art, often using semi transparent materials to layer and create depth. I use eco friendly materials and recycled fabrics as much as possible.