Rachel Wood - Wunderweave
Since she was young Rachel has been drawn to textiles, with a keen eye and enthusiasm for colours and textures as well as her DIY attitude, Rach started off self taught. She is now a fibre artist and weaving teacher based in her hometown of Melbourne. Screen printing, dressmaking, latch-hooking, macrame and tapestry weaving have become a part of her everyday practice.
RACHEL WOOD | TEXTILES | INTERVIEW
During her weaving workshops, Rachel creates a platform for adults to reconnect with play and imagination, to slow down and rejuvenate in a fun and relaxing atmosphere. She aims to explore the powerful aspects of community, where knowledge and skills are passed on and relationships are strengthened through a mindful and exciting experience. Rachel values her efforts in building a warm atmosphere where others can find human connection though learning new techniques and artistry.
What do you like to make?
I enjoy making anything with my hands and have done ever since I was a little kid. My mum is extremely creative, my grandpa was a shoemaker - I think it’s in our bones to want to make something with our hands. We also have a pretty severe ‘give it a go’ attitude. My work can vary from anything to sculpting fabrics to fit a body, knotting rope to form or support a structure, twisting yarn to create cloth. I’m not loyal though, I’ll try anything!
I like to tell a story when creating my pieces, however, my stories tend to be very abstract...it’s rare a piece will ever finish the way I had planned. I also really like the challenge of showing off the beauty of a certain fibre or material. This can also become the challenge and inspiration for a piece.
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What are you making now during the times of corona lockdown?
I’m trying to make more time for people...friends, family, colleges and customers. I’m making a conscious effort to slow down and be patient with others and myself. Making the most of the simple moments - showers, cooking, sleeping. I’ve also be making the ol’ iso-sourdough - although I’m not sure my starter is really up scratch yet. Stay tuned....
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Let us know any instagram handles / upcoming events / exhibitions / websites / collaborations / where we can buy your work / classes talks that we can advertise for you
My Weaving Kits! They’re the perfect Isolation / rainy day activity! Check them out here https://thedesignfiles.net/2020/04/shopping-creative-isolation-home-deliveries/
Do you have any recommendations for any of us locked-in with cabin fever?
I’ve been working from home for years and am a self-isolator from waay back - so I’m constantly on the hunt for these recommendations!
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Film/ TV - I’ve been obsessed with the Grey Gardens Documentary, every single episode of Rupauls Drag Race, Normal People on Netflix has been heavenly through iso.
Podcasts - I’ve ripped through so many podcasts - The Design Files Talks. The High Low, Song Exploder - (in particular - the Sharon Van Etton - Seventeen episode) Off Menu, Desert Island Discs, I love a podcast!
Youtube - Debunking the 10 Myths of Sourdough Starter on Youtube (For obvious reasons)
Other - The @mytherapistsays histogram is the reason I burst out in laughter most days. Florence and the Machine has a bookclub, it’s called between two books.
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Tell us a few of your favourite artists/makers?
Ooh there are too many - so I’ll keep it local. I love the work of Beci Orpin and just her general way of doing things, Ashley Ronning’s zines are incredible, Candy Mt florists, the seamstresses at Second Stitch, and I love listening to Empat Lima. I really could go on....
I enjoy making anything with my hands and have done ever since I was a little kid. My mum is extremely creative, my grandpa was a shoemaker - I think it’s in our bones to want to make something with our hands. We also have a pretty severe ‘give it a go’ attitude. My work can vary from anything to sculpting fabrics to fit a body, knotting rope to form or support a structure, twisting yarn to create cloth. I’m not loyal though, I’ll try anything!
I like to tell a story when creating my pieces, however, my stories tend to be very abstract...it’s rare a piece will ever finish the way I had planned. I also really like the challenge of showing off the beauty of a certain fibre or material. This can also become the challenge and inspiration for a piece.
What are you making now during the times of corona lockdown?
I’m trying to make more time for people...friends, family, colleges and customers. I’m making a conscious effort to slow down and be patient with others and myself. Making the most of the simple moments - showers, cooking, sleeping. I’ve also be making the ol’ iso-sourdough - although I’m not sure my starter is really up scratch yet. Stay tuned....
Let us know any instagram handles / upcoming events / exhibitions / websites / collaborations / where we can buy your work / classes talks that we can advertise for you
My Weaving Kits! They’re the perfect Isolation / rainy day activity! Check them out here https://thedesignfiles.net/2020/04/shopping-creative-isolation-home-deliveries/
Do you have any recommendations for any of us locked-in with cabin fever?
I’ve been working from home for years and am a self-isolator from waay back - so I’m constantly on the hunt for these recommendations!
Film/ TV - I’ve been obsessed with the Grey Gardens Documentary, every single episode of Rupauls Drag Race, Normal People on Netflix has been heavenly through iso.
Podcasts - I’ve ripped through so many podcasts - The Design Files Talks. The High Low, Song Exploder - (in particular - the Sharon Van Etton - Seventeen episode) Off Menu, Desert Island Discs, I love a podcast!
Youtube - Debunking the 10 Myths of Sourdough Starter on Youtube (For obvious reasons)
Other - The @mytherapistsays histogram is the reason I burst out in laughter most days. Florence and the Machine has a bookclub, it’s called between two books.
Tell us a few of your favourite artists/makers?
Ooh there are too many - so I’ll keep it local. I love the work of Beci Orpin and just her general way of doing things, Ashley Ronning’s zines are incredible, Candy Mt florists, the seamstresses at Second Stitch, and I love listening to Empat Lima. I really could go on....
