I discovered my passion for batik whilst working with artists in Kota Baharu on the east coast of Malaysia in 1991. On returning to the UK I moved to Bristol and have continued to develop my own style of batik, repeating motifs to give the works life, depth and a sense of movement. The natural world provides an unlimited source of inspiration - my love of wildlife is reflected in my work.  My father was a keen birdwatcher & fisherman, so as a child  this is where I learnt much about and a love for birds and British wildlife. I work on white cotton lawn fabric using traditional wax pens & brushes to apply wax and painting on dyes to build up layers to give depth and colour. A final dip in the dye bath creates  the characteristic crackled effect.
I also produce etched glass to commission using wax as a resist before sandblasting and more recently have moved into textile design using a range of my images to produce fabric for handmade lampshades and cushions

I have exhibited widely in the West Country (including Slimbridge, & artist in residence at Nature in Art) and at SWLA open exhibition in London.  My numerous commissions include  health centres, and coperate, charitable trusts and private clients.  I also teach batik to individuals and community and school workshops producing large batik banners.

PLEASE SEE Events & Exhibitions/WORKSHOPS page for  CURRENT LIST OF DAY WORKSHOPS FOR 2019
and outlets and events where I will be exhibiting

Follow me on Instagram: @jowhiteland
​                         Facebook: Jo Whiteland Batiks