Help preserve our future
West Dean is part of a registered charity and relies on the support of generous donors, friends, legacies to help us deliver world-class education in conservation and the creative arts and maintain our award-winning gardens.
Isabella Whitworth
Isabella trained as a graphic designer and worked in industry
before 'discovering' textiles during extended travels in Asia. She
specialises in resist-dyeing, enjoying an international following
as artist and tutor. Isabella is also known for historical research
into natural dyes, and is a member of the Devon Guild of
Craftsmen.
Describe your approach to teaching:
I have an unpressured approach which welcomes the design-phobic.
Students experiment and discover tools and materials at their own
pace before finding a personal 'place' within the medium and making
original work.
What inspires your own work?
I have kept sketchbooks for over 40 years. Drawings and sketches
from personal observation are the foundation of all my work,
generally with an emphasis on texture and colour.