Makers

Sarah Woodrow

Biography

I discovered basketmaking when I met Roy Youdale, professional basketmaker, at The Bath flower show nearly 20 years ago and he invited me to come on one of his courses. I took further courses with him, Sheila Wynter, Norah Kennedy,and travelled to Ireland to take courses with Joe Hogan. I also took Basketmaker Association arranged courses with many other brilliant teachers both at Westhope College, and in York. I completed the 4 year City and Guilds Creative Basketry course at the City Lit in London in 2011.

I weave in a range of natural materials but also man-made and recycled materials. I most enjoy working with willow in all its natural hues and shades. I am particularly interested in organic forms and spirals and how pattern and colour enhance the shape of my baskets.

Most recently I have collaborated with Chris White at Hookshouse Pottery where he makes a woodfired raw glazed bowl into which I weave willow.

I grow 26 varieties of coloured willow on a shared Bristol allotment. I use these in my decorative baskets both contemporary and traditional and some sculptures.

I teach basketry courses and workshops in Bristol, and recently have been involved in teaching a group of first year Bath Spa students as part of a first year achitecture module.

I am a member of North Bristol Artists and show my work each year on the North Bristol Arts trail. I first exhibited with the group in 2010.

I have shown my work at exhibitions in various locations in Bristol, London and at Hookshouse Pottery.

 

 

 

Interests
  • Basketry
  • Contemporary
  • Natural Fibres
  • Traditional