The life and work of Ailish H
‘You are such an inspiring and creative artist. I have said this many times, that I love your approach, your methods and the freedom you offer for participants to be gently guided within the framework of a workshop but at the same time affording them the opportunity to explore their own ideas and individuality. This I think is a special gift.’ (2024) Rosalind - Textile artist
Who is Ailish H?
Narrative led Fine Art Textiles - Research based artist and author
‘I will tell you the story….’ from childhood, those words have captured her heart and mind, flourishing her subsequent work as an artist and writer. Familial ties are often woven within her work, having been raised within a family with both Fine Art and Textile links.
She is the custodian of many a tale, visually detected in her practice.
Most famous for her fine art stitched collage works, which have been exhibited both in the UK and overseas.
She is represented by Handmade in Britain online and Made To Last. Both stock her ranges for Interiors and Fashion. She also appears at specifically curated events, which will be advertised on this website if applicable.
Most of her current ranges are also available to purchase through her shop directly.
Ever the story keeper, yet she leaves a comma. When you become the owner of a sample from a collection, you effectively have the honour of carrying on its’ narrative, coming to the full stop.
Ailish is available to host workshops and lectures on request. She has to date had three large solo exhibitions with a forth in London this October and has written for or had her work illustrated in a number of publications, including Selvedge and Embroidery.
Her title Narrative Textiles is out on the 10th of October and is available to pre-order today via clicking on the book on this page.
Do follow her online via this website, instagram and her newslettr, which you may wish to subscribe to.
Embroidering a Narrative - The work of Ailish H
The Batsford Gallery, London
Thursday, 10 October 2024 12:00 - Sunday, 20 October 202418:00
'I will tell you a story of Jack and the Glory, if you do not speak in the middle of it'. Her familiar dear grandfather's voice, uttered these words long decades ago, yet it was succinct moments which didn't seem to matter, which created a book full of life for Ailish the young impressionable mind. Ailish has become the custodian of the Narrative, the taker of stories, all given a visual place in her subsequent artworks. This exhibition celebrates the tale so far. Via the use of Mixed Media, Fine Art, Stitch and cloth centred methods, you will come across faces, life stains and materials of sentiment, many of which are founded upon the familial. Dually, this is a celebration surrounding the release of Ailish's first title with Batsford; Narrative Textiles. The gallery holds many works directly shown from the book itself - a story brought to life. As you take your leave, take a moment to resonate with all you have encountered - what is your own personal story - how- will - you tell it.
Stitchery Stories - With Ailish Henderson
With a huge thanks to Sue Weeks of Stitchery Stories, for taking the time to create and curate a wonderful interview with me for her Textile Art Podcast.
Simply click on the image to be taken directly to the episode.
“Thank you Ailish for your amazingly inspirational approach to teaching.
Having worked a lot creating original textile art myself, I have learnt even more from you. You have the ability to gently take students even further with your innovative teaching style and manner. Your students benefit from your quiet relaxed teaching which encourages carefree and fearless experimentation.
It is such fun working with you! I have loved every minute of it.
I warmly recommend Ailish Henderson as a wonderfully friendly and inspiring teacher.” Rosalind, Stitch Club member 2023