Statement

My practice is materials-led and rooted in place. Creating with plants, plant fibres and wild clay; concerned with origins and connection and the immersive, sensory experience of making. I forage materials from woods, hedgerows and from the land where I live in Sussex, UK.

In the making of my work, a dialogue emerges between myself (my hands), these wild materials and the place.

Immersed in the whole cycle of production: harvesting in a sustainable way, processing the raw materials, creating functional and sculptural pieces. I’m driven by a desire to live a reciprocal life with our ecological relations, alongside the compulsion to create with my hands.

As an educator I provide a space for people to develop their skills and creativity, as well as their connection with the living world. Witnessing the sense of achievement and satisfaction that people experience from making a basket or pot in the landscape, from foraged materials, is inspiring.

Bio

I studied 3-Dimensional Craft (majoring in ceramics) at the University of Brighton, receiving a BA (Hons), followed by Post Graduate training as an Art & Design Secondary-level teacher. I later developed my work with a Diploma in the Therapeutic Application of the Arts and went on to receive formal basketry training in London and with a number of UK basketmakers.

As a team member of East Sussex Archaeology and Museums Partnership (2009-15) I undertook experimental archaeological projects including co-constructing prehistoric-style dwellings. We also taught ancient craft & technology to all ages, in the community and at heritage locations.

My work is also informed by having lived and worked in remote areas of Sudan and Ethiopia, and by extended periods of silent contemplative practice in the natural world.

Exhibitions & Residencies

2023
Hazel Holloway, Wakehurst, Sussex (site specific permanent work)
Cross-Ecounters, Joining Threads, London Design festival

2022
Our Clouded Hills, Gallery 207, Lewes, Sussex

2021
From The Land, Old Lock Up Gallery, Derbyshire

2019
Waterweek: Vital Water, Gallery North, Sussex

2018
Fiveways Artists, Open House, Brighton Festival, Sussex

2017
Space Between, Wakehurst, Sussex (site specific)

2015
Making Lewes, Festival of Making, Architecture, Design & Sustainability, Sussex

2014
Meadow Weave, Residency at Wakehurst, Sussex (site specific)

2013
The True Value of Materials, University of Brighton
MADE-London