A new year is here and I’m looking forward to seeing what 2026 has in store. 2025 was a busy year and I worked on brilliant projects with amazing people. October and November were a bit of a blur so I took time in December to rest, I needed time to relax and evaluate what I want to do as I move forward in my freelance career.

I taught some wonderful workshops across Yorkshire, and I was back in The Art Library at Leeds Central Library too, teaching workshops and working on the biggest commission of my life, Threads of Freedom. After viewing the Leeds Tapestry for so many years, it was an honour to be selected as the lead artist on the new panel. You can view the work in Leeds Central Library on the first floor corridor between the Art and Music Libraries.

2025 also included my first solo exhibition in Scarborough, at the beautiful Woodend Gallery. Fancy Goods is a fun collection of work inspired by the seaside gift shops we know and love. I also have some ideas for new work that I’m hoping to create and exhibit this year.

During my December break, I’ve been reflecting on the last year and spending more time resting and watching telly with the cat. I didn’t create much work in the second half of the year, instead I focussed on commissions which took up all of my creative thinking.

I don’t enjoy making resolutions but I do like to do some goal setting for the year ahead so here is my list for 2026…

1. I’d like to create new work each month in the studio. I already have a plan for this which is great
2. I’d love to master another technique so I’ve chosen quilting
3. Getting back into drawing will really help me when creating new work
4. Explore more options for selling my artwork
5. Thread Collective began in 2025 and I want to grow and develop this in 2026

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