Look into the Life of a Craft Maker from the South West ...

The Devon Guild is a Membership organisation. Here Members talk about their paths as makers and artists. Other Members profiles will be added at intervals.

Name: Sam Pickard

What materials do you work with? 
Fabric, wallpaper and more recently cork.

What techniques and equipment do you use?
I am interested and excited by experimentation with materials and processes. During my career as a textile designer/maker I have carved lino-blocks for embossing, used natural dyes as well as chemical dyes for dyeing and printing with block and screen. I am currently using digital printing sometimes combined with screen-printing onto fabric and wallpaper. I am also developing laser-etched and foil-printed cork wall-coverings.

Can you recall how or why you became a maker?
I studied textiles at Camberwell School of Art and Crafts in the early 1980’s. The course was very craft based and I learned design and practical skills in both printed and woven textiles. I have since felt that this career path as a designer and craftsperson is very much part of my heritage - as my father is a clock-maker, my paternal grandfather was a cabinet-maker and my maternal grandfather was a stone mason.

Did you have an inspirational teacher?
John Miles during my MA.

What are the benefits of being a maker?
I have a great sense of achievement for where I am now and the journey I have taken to arrive here. Also the remarkable and inspirational designers and makers I have met because of it.

What are the disadvantages?
None today!