In the studio with Leah Vivienne

You will find Leah painting with wool in her studio on a small vineyard in Martinborough on New Zealand’s South Island. She shares what she loves about textiles and how she went from an admirer, to a maker.

Photography: Lucia Zanmonti

Hello, who are you?

I’m Leah, an Irish textile artist living in Martinborough, New Zealand.

When did you start fibre art?

I studied textile and surface design in university and specialised in printed and woven textiles. I started working with wool during this time but it wasn’t until I came to New Zealand years later that I really fell in love with it.

“The countryside and vast space was initially something I had to get used to but now couldn’t live without. It’s been incredibly beneficial to my work.”

What is life like for you in Martinborough?

Life is pretty damn good in Martinborough. It’s a cute wine town an hour away from Wellington. I’m a bit of a city chick at heart but have over the years found myself settling into my gum boots (welly boots) quite nicely. My partner Alex and I, along with our two cats and four chickens, live a little rural life on a small vineyard. Along with creating textiles I also work with Alex on our wine brand, Drummond Farm. The countryside and vast space was initially something I had to get used to but now couldn’t live without. It’s been incredibly beneficial to my work. 

What were you doing before you became a ‘maker’?

I was managing a gallery in Martinborough and curating exhibitions with some fantastic artists and loved it. I had taken a break from making while I was travelling, but it was after I scored this job that the creative itch needed scratching. 

Photography: Lucia Zanmonti

Photography: Lucia Zanmonti

What do you enjoy most about working with wool?

I love everything about wool – love the way it feels, the way it looks, the smell! I love that wool is natural, renewable, sustainable and that I can use it to create abstract work that often reflects its irregular nature. My work is inspired by my surroundings and viewpoints from long walks. I think it’s really cool that I can create work inspired by the land where the fibre I use is grown. 

Can you tell us about your textile classes?

The classes are so fun. They’ve really turned into hang out sessions with other textile enthusiasts and I’ve met some absolutely cracking people! That’s what I love most about the classes – the people. And obviously sharing my excitement and love for my craft. But mostly the people. 

Do you have a favourite creation in your collection?

My favourite piece to date is a rug I created called ‘Sunset on the Rimmys’. It was inspired by a walk up the Remutaka Ranges and it sold at my last exhibition. I remember finishing it and letting out a big “I love it!”. Which was pretty cool. I hope it’s bringing even more joy to its new owner.

@leahviviennetextiles
Martinborough, New Zealand