Sunday 30 November 2014

Decembers Guest Artist Suzy Shackleton

To finish off what has been a stunning year of guest artists we have the very colourful and talented Suzy Shackleton in her own words Suzy describes below her inspirations and techniques for her unique felt pieces.


Im a felt artist and I make contemporary vibrant wall hangings using traditional felt making techniques. I combine old with modern by using ancient felting methods to create illustrative and quirky designs. 

I regard my felts as paintings, with the wool fibres representing my pallet.  Each piece is hand rolled and wet felted using inlays, mosaics and needle felting.  Layering the gossamer thin merino wool I gradually build up depth and tone.

What inspires me - is difficult to say, there is so much.Living and working from my studio in the Peak District (Rainow) the stunning views provide me with daily inspiration but I also love the exciting textures of the wool and creating bold designs.  However if I was to pick one thing, it would be colour


Felt making has become my passion.  I learnt about felt making at art college and never looked back, I was hookedI love the rich colours of the wool, its tactile qualities and the whole process of rolling and creating the felt. 

I think I was destined to be a felt artist - my nan was a milliner making felt hats for the wealthy and I was born in Stockport, a few miles from the hat museum, which used to be the main felting region in the country with more than 30 factories churning out felt hats to meet demand.



The best advice I have ever been given about art is dont care what anyone thinks!  Very difficult in practice but very good advice

Three artists who are inspirational to me are Anita Klein, Hundertwasser and the childrens illustrator Eric Carle.

Most inspirational place is where I live - the peak District.  Going for local walks with my dog (Inga) is the best way to fuel creativity


Definitely my practice has changed over time and its great to revisit old themes but with new and more advanced techniques.  I think it is essential to move forward and constantly challenge yourself.  Sometimes the techniques dont work or look good but thats just as useful to know.

Had lots of memorable responses but the main ones are when I do special commissions for  clients and they are visibly moved.  Its fantastic knowing a piece Ive created has such a wonderful effect - makes it absolutely worth all the hard work.


To find out more about Suzy read here: http://www.suzyshackleton.com/

The gallery is open Tues - Sat 10 -5pm and Sundays 11- 4pm 

Don't forget our late night shopping on December 5th till 8pm!

Sunday 23 November 2014

Christmas Gift Ideas and Photos From Inside the Gallery

Christmas is creeping up on us and Karina is getting the tinsel out as I write this blog! Soon Studio 61 will look like Santas Grotto and there are many stunning locally made gift ideas perfect for discerning family members!

We know its still November and even we are reluctant to use the 'C' word but we aim to make your gift buying as painless as possible by avoiding the city crowds and shopping local all with a cup of coffee and a friendly atmosphere!
First let me tell you about Karinas unique 'Family Tree personalised watercolours'

If you fancy having one done Karina can "do them whilst you wait" and you can choose from ready mounted to fit a standard 8" x 10" frame or NEW: unmounted in a handmade white 5" x 5" frame Both are a signed original watercolour with the words "The ? Family Tree on the reverse £15 each. designs will vary.


Around the gallery our designers have been working hard to bring you one of a kind gifts here are some examples below that have recently been sourced and handpicked by Karina.






If you cant see what you are looking for a commission or gift voucher is also an idea meaning that a landscape or house portrait can be painted by Karina tailored to your exact wishes.Karina works in the gallery everyday and is happy to discuss your requirements.


The gallery has had a move around allowing for the expansion of the very successful Fine Art Printing Business the team are available to discuss your fine art printing and if you are a photographer or artist why not have your art works printed and mounted ready to send as personal gifts this Christmas?







Late night shopping event December 5th till 8pm!

The gallery is open Tuesday - saturday 10 -5pm and Sundays 11- 4pm