BACKGROUND & QUALIFICATIONS:
- PGCE (Post-graduate Certificate in Education): 2005. From City College Norwich (awarded by Anglia Polytechnic University)
- BA (HONS) Crafts (Textiles & Ceramics): 1997. From Manchester Metropolitan University
- BTEC ND Surface Pattern Design: 1994. From The Norfolk Institute of Art and Design
- GCSE Art and Design grade A: 1992. Benjamin Britten High School (awarded by the University of London)
I am influenced by many decorative arts, most significantly surface pattern design, including vintage and contemporary printed textiles, embroidery, wallpaper, stained glass windows, ceramic tiles and pottery and glass millefiori canes. I like the work of artists such as Matisse and Klee and I’m also inspired by folk art from around the world.
I use traditional and contemporary techniques in my work including collage and applique with fabrics and paper, lino printing and fabric printing. I enjoy using many mediums such gouache, watercolour, acrylic, oils, ink, pencils and coloured markers. I also combine digital photography into my work. I then create new artwork and patterns from these processes by using digital software. I use my own digitally printed fabric and paper in my work to create vibrant mixed media art.
After teaching art, textiles and art history for 6 years in sixth form colleges, further education colleges and schools, I set up my garden studio in 2008.
My work has developed from making small double-sided square beads using my own fabric designs to other jewellery including bracelets, pendants and brooches. For the last few years I have made bigger work using my surface pattern designs which are printed digitally onto cotton. Since 2014 I have made mosaic photo frames and mosaic artworks which are presented in tray frames.
Wanting to expand my geometric artwork from simple square mosaic pieces, I started making circle mosaics in 2015. These use more intricate patterns, which I find exciting to design.
My artwork is mainly concerned with the relationship between structure, order and sequence, against the accidental or random. I like the way I can organise decorative elements through my artwork, from the simple to the complex.
I am currently working on an art project based on the alphabet. Please find examples of this work on my Blog page.
COMMISSIONS:
I can make you a set of bespoke beads or a special piece of unique jewellery to your own design and colour. I also specialise in making original artwork and mosaics for your home. Just phone or send me a message using my Contact Suzi page with your request.
GALLERIES, MEMBERSHIP AND LINKS
Waveney & Blyth Arts. I am a member of this organisation, which aims to connect creative people in Norfolk and Suffolk. I have a profile on their website. Please visit: http://waveneyandblytharts.com/suzi-pye/
Suffolk Artists. I have an artists profile on the website called Suffolk Artists. Visit: http://www.suffolkpainters.co.uk/index.cgi?choice=painter&pid=2855
Craftco. I have a collection of ear studs at this gallery and shop. 40a High Street, Southwold, IP18 6AE. Tel (01502) 723211. Visit: http://www.craftco.co.uk
Ferini Art Gallery. I exhibit my work here and have had a solo exhibition here during Sept/Oct 2016. 27-29 All Saints Road, Pakefield, Lowestoft, Suffolk, NR33 OJL. Tel (01502) 562222. Visit: http://www.feriniartgallery.co.uk
The Embroiderers’ Guild. I am a member of the Waveney branch. Meetings are held once a month, where we have talks and workshops on embroidery, related textiles and crafts. Visit: https://embroiderersguild.com/index.php
Hazel Spencer. She is an artist and also my mother! Visit: http://www.hazelspencerartist.com
TUITION
With my teaching qualification, I can offer tuition in a wide range of art & craft activities. These sessions take place in my garden studio. I have classes for both adults and children. Please visit my Tuition page for a complete outline of the subjects I teach.
GIFT VOUCHERS
I can send you one of my greetings cards containing a gift voucher to give to someone special.They can spend it on a piece of jewellery, mosaic, bead set or artwork. The gift voucher can be for any amount starting at £10 and can also be for art tuition too.
If you have any questions about my artwork please feel free to ask. Give me a call on: (01502) 567844. Hope you enjoy looking around the site!
Best Wishes