Margaret Godel works mainly with traditional woven tapestry techniques. She studies both ancient and more contemporary weaving as a means of developing her own practice.

Drawing inspiration from many sources, curiosity remains fundamental to her creative process which is rooted in experimentation. Emerging concepts may then be amplified or modified in future work. This way of working can lead to unexpected and ambiguous forms, as well as deceptively simple pieces.

Often working with a restricted earthy colour palette, her materials include wools, cottons, silks, and specialist yarns and threads, as well as found objects, left-over fabrics, and organic matter. Occasionally she explores ideas through different materials such as wax or clay.

Margaret is fascinated by the structure of tapestry: the limitations of the grid imposed by warp and weft, and the technical challenges of weaving. The apparent simplicity of the repetitive ‘over and under’ action of weaving, offers endless expressive possibilities. She enjoys the geometry of it as well as pushing the boundaries to exploit its unique aesthetic potential. Some of her work reflects traditional technique and form, but some breaks free from the rectilinear, and the smooth surface, offering instead organic forms with textural and sculptural qualities. Her small weavings of symbols and motifs reference various traditions and cultures.

After an academic career, Margaret graduated again with an MA in Contemporary Art Practice. From there she studied tapestry weaving at the West Dean College of Arts and Crafts. She is now at Ayres House Studios in Wallingford, and accasionally accepts commissions.

Email address: tympani4 [at] icloud.com

*All images copyright mgodel