SHIRLEY NETTE WILLIAMS
Where did the name ‘textureyes’ come from?
The name ‘textureyes’ represents my passion for texture and my artistic ‘eye for detail’.
What do you do?
I’m an artist and designer with a background in fashion, textiles and costume design. I primarily work with stitch, print and mixed-media collage.
Over the years I’ve gathered an eclectic mix of materials, I’m drawn to old, used things with a story to tell. I love imperfection…it’s easy for me to see potential in the irregular and discarded. Somewhere along the line these things become inspiration or material for my work.
How and where do you work ?
I’m immersed in a kind of organised chaos… a spare bedroom that’s been lovingly converted into a small studio. I’m an explorer of material and process. My approach is experimental; a multi-layering of materials, media and technique.
Have you always been creative and how is your background connected to what you do now?
I loved drawing and making clothes from a young age. I went on to study fashion design and illustration straight from school, leading to a varied career within the fashion industry. I later transferred my skills and knowledge to designing fashion and dance costumes…I’ve now returned full circle to drawing but this time using stitch and print.
Where do you live and how does this affect your work?
I live in North London, a stone’s throw from the famous Camden Market. I’m surrounded by fashion, music, art, media and a multi-cultural population…a constant source of inspiration.
Anything else we should know about you?
I’m an impatient perfectionist who between the ages of 12 and 18 used to be a majorette (baton twirler) to my American friends. I’ve always had nimble fingers!
