This four-day course will offer an in-depth exploration of the ‘free warp tapestry’ techniques developed by Tadek Beutlich after he relocated from Ditchling to Spain in the 1970s.

The Workshop 

You will work with a variety of fibres, colourful threads, yarns, and beaten Esparto grass, provided by artist and basketmaker Tim Johnson, who is based in Spain. Drawing inspiration from the natural surroundings of Ditchling and Tadek’s innovative fibre works showcased in the exhibition, you’ll have the opportunity to create your own sculptural fibre art.

In the later years of his career, Polish fibre artist Tadek Beutlich innovated upon his extensive knowledge of traditional tapestry techniques. Influenced by his life experiences and the details of nature, he developed a distinctive, colourful world of fibre art that opened up endless creative possibilities. Tadek referred to these techniques as ‘Free Warp Tapestry,’ which includes techniques such as wrapping and binding, cordage making, free warp tapestry, twining, and soumak.

Throughout the course, you’ll use beaten Esparto grass, sisal, rush, and a variety of colourful threads, yarns, and strings, combining them with locally sourced natural materials to wrap, bind, and weave your own fibre creations—rooted in both nature and tradition. Possible outcomes may include wall pieces, vessels, installations, or fibre sculptures.

Participants are welcome to bring their own wools, threads, yarns, and fibres to complement the materials provided. Tools will be supplied, but you may want to bring your own scissors, needles, and sewing tools.

Tools provided but you may like to bring along your own scissors, needles, sewing tools etc.

About the Workshop Leader

Tim Johnson is an English artist and basketmaker based in Spain, his work combines a fascination with the natural world, a deep respect for our global woven heritage and a desire to experiment and innovate upon traditional techniques.

Frequently harvesting his own materials from the environs of Catalonia and the Pyrenees, Tim enjoys exploring the possibilities of new materials and unusual combinations. Tim has been familiar with Beutlich’s work for many years and began researching his later fibre works in depth during the 2020 lockdown.