Margaret Laycock

I have lived in the Aire Valley of West Yorkshire all my life and have been involved in a number of voluntary organisations.

A family tradition of stitching has led me through family sewing to membership of the Embroiderers' Guild and City and Guilds parts I and II at Craven College, Skipton and to my present position as an enthusiastic member of Textilia 3 since 1997.

My continuing interest in the relationship of layers and edges in both natural and man-made structures using a colour palette limited to greys, sand, brown and black continue to influence my work.

A great admiration for the work of the Portuguese artist, Vierra da Silva and travels in Japan, China and Central Asia also bring inspiration.

The use of georgette, sheer fabric and paper, dyed, monoprinted, stitched and manipulated offer countless possibilities to experiment with techniques to create small or larger works.

The creation of sketch books and visual diaries, recording the pathway through projects and preparations for completed works, gives me a personal archive to refer to and amend.

My membership of Textilia 3 has brought me life-long friends who give good advice on my development and continuation of this exciting textile journey.