Betty the Cat (and the Beast of Bevendean)

Embroidered textile character. Organic cotton and various textiles.

Dimensions: 41 cm.

Ella’s background in animation, illustration and costume has led to a storybook feel, a whimsical world to step into. For the last 14 years Ella has run her own business selling illustrated books, DIY sewing kits and DIY dioramas alongside a selection of homewares and accessories. The last few years has seen Ella create one off embroidered characters which were born out of experimentation with left over fabrics and storytelling. Strips left over from printing fabric kits were pieces she didn’t want to waste. She loved the patina on the fabric after a month underground and that these creations were truly born of the earth. Ella collects fabrics when travelling and from thrift shops, flea markets and the like. The smallest scraps are saved, painted, embroidered and repurposed. Frequent travels including regular trips to Japan have inspired some themes which run through the work alongside the importance of slow meditative making and how it can be used to create, curate and repair.