Join artist Cathy Van Hear for a creative exploration of textile construction

Explore the creative potential of constructed textiles through weave, knit, crochet and stitch. Over eight weeks, this course encourages playful experimentation with texture, material and form, using unexpected materials such as wire and fabric scraps, and incorporating unconventional fibres and found objects into our work.

Beginning with hands-on sampling and material play, participants will build tactile samples and artworks. Through this process of making and reworking, the course invites a deeper engagement with textile construction as an expressive, fine art practice.

The course is split into two parts; the first 4 sessions are focused on experimental sampling and explorations, and the latter 4 sessions will look at developing work further into developed outcomes.

The course is suitable for makers who are interested in exploring textile construction in an open, experimental way. It’s suitable for all levels; some prior making experience is helpful but not required.

Materials are provided throughout, and students are welcome to bring materials for the latter sessions, should they want to develop their work in a particular direction.

Please bring a sketchbook and pens, if desired, for making sampling notes.

Costs: £200

Days: 8 Thursday mornings

Dates: 1 October to 26 November (no class 29 October)

Times: 10:00 - 13:00

Location: White / Red Room

Maximum: 10

Phoenix Art Space is a registered charity.

When you purchase a ticket for one of our courses, you're directly supporting our work. We work hard to keep our prices as low as possible so our courses remain inclusive.

If you're able to support us further, we warmly welcome donations via our website.

Cathy Van Hear is a textile artist and crochet specialist based in Brighton. She has 7 years of experience teaching workshops, courses, and classes at venues such as Make Town, Morley College, and the Southbank Centre as well as in collaboration with Brainchild Festival and Bestival.

In her classes, she balances technical skill development and the joy of creating to build both technical and creative confidence in her students. Her studio practice focuses on crochet, but also includes stitch, natural dyeing, quilting, and surface manipulation. Using these traditional craft techniques, she delves into the tapestry of human experience, unravelling threads of identity, belonging, and self-discovery.

Description supplied by the event organiser.