Beth Pottinger-Hockings, Peace Begins with Me

I have always been a maker. As a child, I learned to knit and sew out of necessity. Growing up on a hill country sheep and beef farm, wool has always been a part of my life, but over twenty years ago I discovered the magic of felt making and found my creative passion. Using water, soap and agitation, wet felting transforms washed, carded and dyed raw wool into scarves, garments, wall hangings and sculptural pieces. Colour, balance, shape and texture are crucial in my work which is often inspired by nature, meaningful moments and everyday observations. The process of creating is contemplative, meditative, soothing and energising, serving as a vital balance to my life as a counsellor. The wall pieces were created for an exhibition at PTG in 2024, while the sculpture is a new test piece for a future exhibition series.