Deborah Gray

I am a textile artist based in Oban, I work with natural materials, using hand spinning, natural dyeing, knitting, hand stitching and botanical printing. Much of my recent work explores the links between the landscape and the raw materials growing there. My botanical prints on paper and upcycled fabrics are made up of a variety of items which I sell under the brand name Maisie’s Emporium. I have been an artist-in-Residence three times at the Icelandic Textile Centre and have exhibited in Argyll, Shetland and Iceland. I teach spinning, dyeing and knitting in Scotland and internationally. I am the lead artist for the EcoCreative Cluster, a project hosted by The Rockfield Centre, Oban; establishing a dye garden, running workshops and supporting the creation of a network of local and international artists using natural dye processes.

I find the landscapes of the West of Scotland and Iceland particularly inspiring. Colours, forms and textures are represented in my work. I use the abundance of natural materials available, especially local wools and plants. Collaboration and networking with other artists and local organisations broaden the scope of my work.