About
Hi, I’m carol, a printmaker, mixed media artist, surface pattern and textile designer and the face behind sk_etch studio.
The name sk_etch comes from two of my main art practises, sketching and printmaking (etching).
Carol printmaking
The beginning
Born in West Yorkshire in the UK, my childhood was spent amongst the windswept Pennines, breathing the freshest of air and surrounded by a vast landscape of heathered moorland, drystone walls, reservoirs, sheep and a fair amount of horizontal rain.
Colne Valley, West Yorkshire, UK
Inspiration
As long as I can remember, I have drawn and photographed everything I see around me analysing colour, form and pattern through my own lens. I gather ideas from nature, travel, people and architecture never knowing when they might pop up to inform a new idea.
Pen and Ink drawing, Kettlewell UK
Creative journey
The woollen mills lining the lush green valleys of my childhood had a subliminal influence leading me to combine my enjoyment of art and maths and study woven textile design at University.
Heddles from Jacquard loom, VIC, Australia
Travel
After graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree in Textile Design and Technology, my desire to travel saw me trade the low cloud and misty hues of Yorkshire for the big skies and oceans of Australia, settling in Southern Sydney where I still live today.
Austinmer, NSW, Australia
Work and play
I have been fortunate to work with woven textiles and surface pattern since coming to Australia, collaborating with many amazing commercial textile producers in Australia and around the world.
In addition to this, I continue to explore my own fine art practise through printmaking, painting and mixed media while raising my two beautiful children.
Find Your Joy_Mixed media painting with collage and stitching
Sharing my work
I exhibit regularly with The Print Circle and Southern Printmakers as well as contributing to local and international art groups and online communities.
My prints, cards and other products are available from Hazelhurst Regional Gallery and Arts Centre in Gymea south of Sydney.
I also supply original works and Giclee prints directly for private collectors in Australia and overseas.
I am a firm believer in continually learning and sharing knowledge, both to grow my own creative practise and to help inspire others.
As a bit of fun for all levels come and join my Facebook group
Creativity in 5 Minutes a day_blind sketch using non-dominant hand