Angela Truscott
1 min read
Claire Benn: when handwriting becomes texture
Deborah White : Jan 30 2026
In this episode, Claire Benn joins Deborah White to reflect on handwriting as an expressive, material practice. Working across ink, paper and...
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Show Notes
Takeaways from this episode
- Community projects.
Claire focuses on long-term community textile art projects: Her work explores heritage, well-being, and social issues, especially in Bradford. How can art be used to connect communities and address social issues locally? - Mindful making.
"Slow stitch" and "resilient stitch" are key to her approach: These concepts emphasise mindful making, mending, and the healing aspects of textile art. How could "slow" practices benefit your well-being and connection to the world? - Historical influences.
Her work is inspired by West Yorkshire's textile industry history: She incorporates the region's industrial heritage into her projects. Reflection. How does the history of your region influence your creative work or interests?
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What inspired you this episode? Share your biggest insight or favourite moment by tagging @TakeTwoArtCourses or using #FibreArtsPodcast!
Explore the artwork from this episode below
During the interview, we shared some images of Claire’s artwork. Since you’re listening to the podcast version, we’ve made these images available for you below.
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Claire Benn: Out of This Earth
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From the archives: Dorothy Caldwell and Claire Benn respond to land in textile
What does it mean to know a place? For textile artists Dorothy Caldwell and Claire Benn, it begins with walking, listening, collecting – and letting...
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Claire Wellesley-Smith: Making art meaningful
Claire Wellesley-Smith’s practice is focused on long-term, community-based work, often spanning several years and overlapping multiple projects at...