The Story of Liz Whiteside Studio
the love of painting with threads
I am a tapestry artist and weaver based in a creative studio in Newcastle upon Tyne. I also teach tapestry - both in workshops and online.
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I've always loved creating and design. My background is as a professional artist - using charcoal, pastels and acrylics - in portrait, animal and landscape work. Now I have transferred that knowledge to tapestry and like to paint with threads.
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I love to use my artistic background with my tapestry work - using colour blending techniques with multiple fine threads. My work is very intuitive, specialising in small scale intricate tapestries where I like to push the boundaries of what you can do in a small space. I love to design images (cartoons) to work from and I am currently focusing on landscapes and seascapes. I was born by the sea and it holds a special place for me.
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I have been in BBox Studios in Newcastle upon Tyne for over 5 years. I started in a small studio as an artist and now have a bigger weaving studio with its own workshop space.
​In 2024 I launched tapestry classes from my studio and would love to share my journey with you. I also launched online tapestry classes. It's an exciting step forward as I'm connecting with people worldwide. I'm passionate about what I do and it's been life changing - bringing so much calmness and colour to my life.
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Textile design will remain a part of my journey too as I love all aspects of weaving and design. I have many looms - from the smallest pocket loom to a floor loom. I love to create tapestry on a bigger scale - making rugs on my floor loom. The Scandinavian weaving method, Krokbragd, fascinates me too as it creates very colourful patterns on the loom. I have started creating cushions in the Scandi weave and will launch these soon. ​
Exhibitions:
My first tapestry exhibition is at The Biscuit Factory art gallery for their Spring preview from 7 March 2025. I have 8 works on show.
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