Kate Ward is a multidisciplinary artist, working in jewelry, textiles, ceramics, video and installation. Her work is often minimalist, focusing on form, colour and the interplay of contrasts. Her practice is inspired by the ephemeral, the metaphysical, the symbolic, and the relationship between art, ritual and culture.

Kate has a number of art degrees.

She first obtained a Bachelor of Visual Art from the Australian National University, Canberra, Australia in 1998. Went on to study a Masters in Arts Management and Policy from London University, UK in 2008. A Certifcate in IV Ceramics from Goulburn’s TAFE, Australiain 2012. And culminating with a Masters in Fine Arts at the Nova Scotia College for Art and Design, Halifax, Canada in 2016.

Kate has been the recipient of numerous international scholarships, residencies and exchange programs. Her work has been selected for national and international exhibitions, and won the Fibreart International Guild’s 2001 ‘Outstanding Work by an Emerging Artist’ award, Pittsburgh, USA. Her work is in private collections world wide.

Participants will learn a variety of sashiko (Japanese embroidery) techniques that are perfect for mending. Known as hitomezashi (single stitch) they can be used for repairing jeans, or mending any favourite garment. Bring a garment you wish to mend if you would like to learn how to apply this knowledge in class.

In addition to the visible mending techniques we will discuss the mental and physical benefits of stitching including how to incorporate more creativity in your day.