Ali Pickard (The Yaffingale)

I look at loss and change within language and society, and what we must lose to gain space for change and growth. I embed historical references to reflect on modern society and women’s stories. I am interested in which stories get to be told, and who is telling the tale both within fictional stories and factual society. People often say my work has a fairytale quality, and that it can both make them think and be unsettling.

I like people to be drawn in by a beautifully crafted/intriguing piece of textile art. The craft of making is as important to me as the ideas within a piece and my work can take 100s of hours to complete. I use a lot of hand embroidery.  There are pieces that work on two layers. At first look, a well-crafted piece of art, but for those who want to delve deeper there is often a thought-provoking theme or history behind them