Artwork for Tessa Gavin
Cowl necked poncho
Soft Jacket with tartan details
Soft Jacket with tartan trim
Random dyed
Coatigan close up
Shirt dress
Work in progress
Fringed waistcoat
Details
The inspiration behind my work comes from the fun of sourcing quality pre-loved fabrics & garments that have already had a life, quality wool jumpers, pashmina shawls ready to be enlivened with a dip in the dye pot, fine cotton shirts, linen sheets and old woollen blankets that are no longer valued. Small areas of these garments may be showing signs of wear but there are enough sound parts to justify re-designing & making them into a new garment.
I design clothes that are more like wearable art, they are statement pieces that should be worn every day, clothes should give confidence to the wearer and their flamboyancy should be enjoyed!
I consider myself more of a designer and maker rather than an artist.
Over the last few years I've have been captivated by the whole up-cycling movement. It has altered my thinking and appreciation of the quality of what we discard.
Cutting up old garments & redesigning into new, offers the opportunity to change the norm, adding flashes of bright colour, changing the silhouette, thinking about fastenings and finishes.
I love the challenge, it is endlessly creative & uplifting for me.
Maker and designer of upcycled clothes: specialising in quality finds of used woollen & cotton clothing into fabulously flattering and fun hats, waistcoats, tunics, dresses & cardigans.
Trained as a fashion designer/pattern maker.
Designed, produced & retailed a range of women's clothes sold under the Buttercup Clothes label during late 70's & early 80's.
Still learning to spin, weave, felt and dye!
Made in the Marches Gallery, Kington, Hereford.
