Michelle Martin, Mixed Media & Wire Artist
My creative journey began in jewellery making, using genuine gemstones and wirework to create individual, one off pieces of wearable art. The ‘North Stone’, or Smokey Quartz, is my talisman, the national gemstone of Scotland and the first crystal I bought for myself.
Mixed media came calling in 2018 through a chance meeting and a discussion on how to sculpt with fabric, a technique I’d never come across. As I learned how to drape, fold and sculpt using water-based fabric hardener paint and different types of clay, my interest was piqued to the point that I wanted to teach others how to do it too! My workshops now range from introductory classes to more intricate designs in both mixed media and jewellery making.
I continue to hone my skills in sculpting with fabrics and clay and other mixed media techniques, and combine my passion for wirework to take my craft in a unique direction. I use many recycled natural fabrics, found materials and environmentally friendly techniques. Much of my inspiration comes from local history and landscapes, myth and legend, so dragons, mythical creatures and character animals feature in many of my own designs as shown here and on ‘My Portfolio’ page.
I now have a well-established art studio on the beautiful Solway coast in Dumfries and Galloway, South West Scotland, where you can join in the fun, relax and unwind from a busy week by attending our workshops and project clubs. See the ‘Shop & Book’ page for more details of what is coming up. For those travelling some distance, there is the option of ‘Stay & Play’ holidays - aka crafting heaven!
Of course, if you can’t get here to join the classes, if you have a craft group and venue I can pack up the studio and come to you, or you can purchase tutorials and kits to craft at home.