Artists respond to Into The Light theme for Chichester exhibition

The results are on show at Chichester’s Oxmarket Gallery (August 25-September 6).

Spanning ceramics, glass, wood, jewellery and textiles, the exhibition comprises recent work from more than 30 designer makers, some of whom have strong Sussex connections.

Chichester-based textile artist Carol Naylor is one member who rose to the challenge.

A Fellow of the Society of Designer Craftsmen and a previous chairman, Carol studied at Goldsmiths School of Art where her passion for textiles was nurtured.

In 1997, she left a career as head of fine art at Chichester University in order to concentrate solely on her own work.

Carol specialises in machine embroidery, creating unique one-off pieces for public and private venues.

She describes her work as walking through the landscape, from her home near the South Downs to France, Italy, Spain and other countries.

Carol said: “I’m delighted that the Society has chosen my local gallery for our first exhibition following the uncertainty of recent times. Visitors to the Oxmarket Gallery will see the highest quality of work by a variety of makers, some at the peak of their profession whilst others are embarking on their careers.

“Into the Light is a perfect response to what has gone, and what is still to come, and as I’ve been exploring light in my own work recently, it’s an ideal opportunity to exhibit this work for the first time.’

Another exhibitor living and working in the area is jewellery maker Jessica Noble.

She said: “This is a such an important and exciting opportunity as an independent jewellery artist to emerge from lockdown with an expression of creativity and optimism. The exhibition will be a chance to showcase my bright and optimistic collection – Reflect.

“With the influence of my designs being about light, colour and reflection, there couldn’t be a more welcome and fitting sentiment than being part of Into The Light.”

Jessica’s silver jewellery fuses a playful style with innovative design and artisan craft.

The theme of Into The Light also resonated with Margaret Jones, a tapestry weaver living in West Sussex.

Having achieved a master of fine arts from West Dean College, Margaret has since exhibited nationally and internationally and also organises the Heallreaf tapestry exhibitions. Her own tapestries tell stories, in sequence, each work moving the narrative forwards.

Margaret said: “The tales are about the human condition, the regenerative and degenerative constitution of the human body as we move from difficulty and darkness into the light.”

The exhibition is open Tuesday to Sunday at the Oxmarket Gallery, Chichester until September, 6. Entry is free and all work is for sale.