Philippa Phipps

My project, Bluespace Rhythms, is an exploration into the calming and transformative effects of swimming outdoors, in nature. The meditative repetitions and rhythms of swimming and weaving are drawn together to connect and reveal these memories in water. Observations and responses to this immersive experience are communicated in a collection of hand-woven textile pieces. Narrow woven lengths of dyed silk fabric and threads are manipulated after weaving, to soften them from the order and rigidity of the weaving process. The resulting relaxed forms and open spaces between the warp and weft provide the space to contemplate unknown possibilities and renewal. I am a Fashion Textile graduate from Brighton Polytechnic and have returned to education after a career in the creative industries. I hope to continue with my textile practice in weave and embroidery with further investigation into our connection with the natural world. I live, work and swim in Nottingham.