The Not So Isolated Artist - friends friday

Today’s friend is Abi Jackson. You can see her above, she’s the one with the polka dot apron. I have Abi to thank for my studio space in Burns St.

We met years ago in Northampton’s Fishmarket, a place sadly no longer exists. Abi had a small shop there selling hand made items, I seem to remember fabric brooches and other quirky Fabric creations. I recall looking at her colourful clothes , all those years ago, wishing I had the courage to be more ‘Abi’. I think I actually worshipped her from afar before she even knew my name!

Now Abi works from the top floor of Burns St, creating ,amongst so many other things, exquisite handmade clothing from recycled and vintage material. Her studio always a hive of activity and there’s always something interesting to do, see or chat about up there. If I’m ever having a moment of frustration in my studio, I nip upstairs and have a chat , a cuppa and a cake with Abi and feel much better for it!

Always inspiring and encouraging, Abi champions the arts and loves to see people doing well and promoting creativity , especially in our hometown of Northampton. She runs workshops and regular Stitch and Make evenings that are suitable for any skill level, even I’ve had a go with a sewing machine under her guidance.

Abi never fails to make me laugh on the darkest days, she really ‘gets’ the creative mind and the ups and downs of the business of art.

Do yourself a favour and check out her website. abijackson.com

Images taken from Abi Jackson’s website https://abijackson.com/copyright/