
Phillipa England
Overseal, Derbyshire
Hi, I'm Phillipa.
I am a maker of soft sculpture birds and creatures using ethically sourced materials and reclaimed textiles. I have a passion for giving discarded high-quality materials a second life.
My birds are made using a range of techniques including wood carving, needle felting, stitching and textile manipulation. The precision of tiny stitches and attention to detail are inspired by nature and create the illusion of movement. Each piece is completely unique and is numbered and dated on the leg ring with a maker's mark. They are ideal for a personal collection, gift, or theatrical display.
Birds have always been a favourite of mine for their bright colours and intricate details. My Great Grandmother’s name was Uzzell. This is derived from the French l'oiseau, which means ‘Bird’.
My creative journey began with silversmithing and jewellery making at University. I started felting as a hobby and found it helped my mental health. My work has now grown into designing and making soft sculpture birds and creatures using ethically sourced materials and reclaimed textiles.
I don’t like using patterns as I don’t like repetition. Each of my birds have their own personality, as they do in nature.
The design of each bird takes shape during the make. I might have an idea of the sort of thing I'm after but 9 times out of 10 the bird does its own thing and its character emerges organically.
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