Hebridean Textile Artist Emma MacKenzie

Island life began at the age of 15, on a wild night in November. Esconced in  the old family land rover, we arrived in Tarbert and proceeded to Pairc on the East side of Lewis. Following what was then a single track road, we arrived at our wee  cottage to embark upon our Hebridean adventure. Echos of home in Cornwall, in the landscape. Our introduction to life in the remote wilds of Scotland. A new experience, never forgotten.

As with most teenagers and coming of age, the aim was a spreading of wings and a return to the mainland to study.  Falmouth Art College the beginning of  this ambition, moving on to Surrey Institue of Art and Design leaving having attained a degree  in ceramics.

But found the incredible island way of life, the vast skies, turquoise waters and wild hills  an inexorable draw and so returned to the islands to bring up my family in this very special place. Surrounded by inspiration, atmosphere, wildness and enjoying outdoor activities, kayaking, hillwalking, camping, found myself lured into a world full of art and artists, and through the support of  a group of amazing women. 

I began to experiment with textiles and learned to process fleece, spin yarn and dye the results. I had always loved to draw and paint, and the land and seascapes of the islands  with their constantly changing light, a never ending  source of inspiration. In love with life, In love with the Hebrides and never one for rules, a period of experimentation with painting and mark making on reclaimed fabrics, using water colours, acrylics or inks, and with the emphasis of free motion embroidery to create textures , depict surfaces and movement through linear  marks  and defining stitches to create a totally unique work of art. An ongoing journey of discovery, utilizing collage, print making and stitchwork, discovering a love of textiles and their myriad possibilities. Continuing in this vein to the present day. Constantly exploring new materials and methodologies of working and continuing to be  inspiration by this unique place as well as the creativity of others in the our Hebridean Art Community. My website is a place to explore too and view the results of my journey.