Julie French is a Brighton-based textile artist whose evocative stitched works explore the wild side of nature, movement, and memory. A graduate of East London University (1999) with a degree in Printed Textiles and Surface Decoration, Julie has developed a distinctive practice using the sewing machine as a tool for continuous line drawing. Her free-motion stitch technique transforms reclaimed furnishing fabrics into richly textured compositions that blur the boundaries between drawing, painting, and textile art.

Julie’s work is deeply rooted in personal narrative and observation. Animals—both wild and domestic—frequently appear in her pieces, often inspired by childhood memories or moments of fleeting connection. Her process is intuitive and experimental. Julie embraces the unpredictable nature of stitch, allowing loose threads to dangle or hover around her subjects, creating depth, movement, and a sense of wildness. This approach invites viewers to engage closely with the work, speculating on its construction and the tactile interplay of materials.

Julie’s commitment to sustainability is evident in her choice of materials, often sourced from charity shops, flea markets, or donated textiles.