Felton textile artist to unveil new exhibition at Bailiffgate Museum

The exhibition is in two linked halves: her unique and colourful textile artwork of botanical subjects; accompanied by antique Singer sewing machines exploring their rich social history from the 1860s.

Helen creates her textile artwork with free motion embroidery on her faithful Singer sewing machine to ‘draw’ stitched lines and by appliqué to ‘paint’ with a wide range of fabrics.

Her textile art is inspired and informed by the surrounding hedgerows, riversides, woodlands and gardens of rural Northumberland.

She works with recycled fabrics using the different textures, colours, qualities and lustres of the materials to bring out the beauty of her subjects.

Helen’s 15-strong collection of antique Singer sewing machines dating from the 1860s to the 1960s is also on display in one place for the first time.

In this second part of the exhibition, Helen explores the history and technical innovations of the Singer sewing machine, developed in 1851 by Isaac Merritt Singer.

Helen, who lives in Felton, said: “This will be my first exhibition at Bailiffgate – the light in the gallery space is perfect for my pieces and I think visitors will be interested in the history of the iconic Singer sewing machine which many of us remember in our family home when we were young.”

Jean Humphrys, chair of trustees, said: “Helen’s textiles are exquisite – her use of a 60-year-old sewing machine to create such detailed and intricate designs of plants and flowers is astonishing.

"We are delighted to be open again and able to offer the public the chance to support Bailiffgate and Helen by buying her pieces and printed cards.”

Machine Stitch Art is on show from September 9 to November 1.

Baillifgate is also open on Heritage Open Day, Sunday September 20, when entry will be free. Helen will be at Bailiffgate from 10.30am to 12.30pm and 1.30pm to 3.30pm. Visitors can see the artist demonstrate her techniques and talk to her about her work.

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