ABOUT ME

Shannon grew up in the multicultural country of South Africa, allowing her the opportunity to participate in a myriad of cultural customs, beliefs and ceremonies. This gave her an insight into the relationship between community and its environment.

In addition to this she was surrounded by entrepreneurs who endured difficult economic and political conditions, forcing them to make the most out of the materials and possibilities offered to them in their immediate environment. This independence of thought has been instilled in Shannon and informs her practice. She values an emphasis on individuality and a personal involvement with the making process through the use of hand-making techniques, local and found materials.

After training In South Africa as a tailor she left for London at the age of 23. An unsatisfactory stint in the fashion industry highlighted her appreciation for direct involvement with hand making techniques and materials. She re-trained in contemporary crafts graduating in 2007 from Falmouth University.

She is currently artist in resident at University of Sunderland under the Crafts Council Next Move Scheme. This award has enabled her to set up her studio in the North East where she is developing a new body of work responding to the industrial landscape of Newcastle Upon Tyne.