Meet The Maker: Jenny O'Leary

Hi, my name is Jenny O’Leary and I am a textile artist and tutor living in Shropshire.

I work with batik (hot wax resist), mainly on tissue paper - combining it with bleach, ink and dyes. I sometimes stitch to create beautiful surfaces and textures. Collage and layering are an important part of my work; uniting batiked papers, tissue papers, fabrics, and threads.

My main source of inspiration are the shapes, details, colours and textures found in the landscape; particularly of Shropshire and the borders of Wales where I live.

I offer talks and workshops, teaching my technique through various themes.

Describe your process

My process is based on the technique of batik; using hot wax which is traditionally applied to areas of white fabric to act as a resist, and the fabric is then immersed in dye. The bulk of my work is done on coloured tissue paper. I protect the colour where required with hot wax, then I remove colour with bleach and add colour using drawing inks. It is a layering process and I often play with the order, although I apply the same principles. Through my workshops I also teach batik on fabric, along with themed workshops; it gives me a reason to explore my own technique further.

How and where did you learn batik

For a technique that I love and have been developing and teaching for twenty years, it’s strange that I can’t remember where I first learnt it! I did an Art Foundation course, so I presume I learnt it there. I then went on to do a degree in ceramics, and an Art Teachers Diploma. During my training, many techniques and skills would have been learnt. I certainly remember melting wax over a pan of simmering water in my kitchen as a student, and applying it to white fabric. I developed my process on tissue paper twenty years ago, and it is continually evolving.

Why batik?

I love the process of layering wax and colour on to a surface, and the surprises it offers. It is only when the wax is ironed out at the end that the true effects can be realised and hopefully appreciated.

Where do you work?

 Describe a typical day in your studio

Some days I am working on my own work, and sometimes I’m planning and prepping for a workshop or developing new workshop themes. Most days I spend some time replying to emails about workshops. I’m often prepping for exhibitions or selling opportunities, such as textile and craft fairs. I like to listen to audio books or podcasts when I’m working. I usually work on a few pieces at the same time, of a similar type, so I’m never waiting for work to dry and I can explore my ideas in slightly different directions.

How long have you been doing batik?

 I began as a student, but I have been working in batik on tissue paper for twenty years.

 What inspires you?

I am very much inspired by the landscape where I live in Shropshire. I love to take photographs and draw in my sketchbooks, although my work is usually from my imagination and inspired by what I’ve seen and know.

What is your favourite product?

Black tissue paper as it gives such beautiful tones when bleached, which then affects the ink colours that I apply on top. I’m also very fond of my Chinese brushes too, which I use to apply the wax.

 What have you made that you are most proud of?

Often my most recent work, although I am particularly proud of my batik trees.

 Where can we see your work? Where do you sell?

I often exhibit locally at The Willow Gallery in Oswestry, and I also exhibit and sell as a member of The Shropshire Guild of Contemporary Craft. This year, I will be exhibiting at textile fairs in Kings Lynn and Brockenhurst, Hampshire. I’m also taking part in Bridgnorth Open House Arts Trail.

What will we be seeing from you next?

I regularly post my work, and that of my students, on my Instagram page. My website has images of my work and a list of workshops that I offer, but not dates of workshops - that’s something else I intend to do!

 Do you have any advice for other printmakers and creatives?

Follow your heart and do what you love and what inspires you. Your passion for your work will come through. Find time to play and explore your technique, that way you won’t become tired and will always be inspired to do more.

Follow Jenny on Instagram or head to her website to find out more about her workshops or to see more of her work.