Hello, here's a little more info about me, Anita Lomas

​

My handwoven creations are made in my garden studio in South Manchester. It's wonderful to use plants from my garden, a place I'm very connected with, to weave into a different form of beauty. It makes sense to bring a sustainable new life to fibres that would otherwise fade away back into the earth. 

 

Following a career in graphic design, and years in an office, my yearning to be connected to the outside grew stronger. After a few short day courses in basketry I wanted more. I signed up to the City and Guilds course at Westhope College in Shropshire, and was fortunate to be tutored by the top ‘Weaving Dreams’ man, Eddie Glew from Blithfield Willowcrafts. 

 

In 2018 I completed the course with distinction. Initially my baskets were all willow, but needing more space to work, I put my willow rods into temporary storage to build a garden studio... then lockdown struck. With a need to weave and no access to my willow, the garden plants took a hit. I soon found a new love with soft materials and so a new chapter began. 

 

I’m a member of the Basketmakers’ Association, and also their graphic designer compiling The Journal, a members’ publication, three times a year. 

 

I’m also a member of the Peak District Artisans, a group known for its high standards and outstanding creative works.

 

My yearning to learn and improve continues. In 2024 I enrolled onto an enlightening online course 'Form to Freedom' with Harriet Goodall, a highly acclaimed Australian natural fibre artist. I was fortunate and delighted to be published in the end of year exhibition book titled 'Nurturing Revolutions'.