Camilla Thomas..

Time and Place 

 'I am interested in the longevity of textiles and how we invest time in fabric, by living with it and using it in our every day lives. The idea of a woven throw or blanket, used in our homes for wrapping around at times of tranquillity and reflection, giving us comfort and a sense of well-being, directly connects to this interest. 

I have woven samples, which are intended for manufacture into full size blankets. Some of my pieces give a 'nod' to the traditional welsh blanket, although I prefer to use the beauty of the Welsh coast to inspire the designs. The desire to capture the essence of a place, to take home a 'memento' and hold on to the memory of it, has been significant to me throughout this work. 

The qualities of natural fibres, such as wool for its warmth, softness and lightness of weight and silk for its lustre and luxurious handle, give these pieces value as textiles for use in the home and as keepsakes. 

My first blanket, designed at Penmon Point on Anglesey and manufactures by a family run mill in Lancashire, is now for sale. The proceeds from the sale of this limited edition blanket will be donated to the Air Sea Rescue on the island.' 

The reason I have chosen to write about Camilla's work is because I had a strong connection with what I saw in front of me at the degree show. Her work is very similar to the direction I would like to go in myself, not only the choice of topic and title of her work but the vibrant, stand out colours and yarn choices too. 

Her main influence has come from the North Welsh coast, a place very close to home for me, this being a huge inspiration point, as I relate my mind back to a project last year called 'Locations' here I studied very closely all about home and exactly what that meant to me, as in my opinion 'locations' meaning to locate: to be home. 

As I thoroughly enjoyed working for this project I always knew it would be something I would like to re visit in the future. 

Having now seen Camilla's work ethic and having a strong sense of knowing exactly were I want to be, as well as suggesting what my first project will be all about, Camilla has given me the confidence to grow and adapt on my own skills with the hope of achieving many things in my final year just as she has done, keeping close to mind the love of home.