Claire Hiett

Artist in Residence February 2025
Instagram @hiett_art
Facebook Hiett Art
Website clairehiett.co.uk

I was very fortunate to be able to return to Mud & Wool Creative Escapes this year, to further explore the connections made on last year's Artist Residency. I'm still very interested in exploring the wellbeing connections between creativity and nature and on this occasion the addition of the wood fired sauna became a focus for my work. I'm exploring the working title Inside Out. As an advocate for encouraging people outdoors to connect with nature, I found myself debating this while in the safe space of a warm environment in the wood fired sauna, looking out over a beautiful vast panoramic view, with likeminded people. Also, due to the increase in such venues popping up in our coastal towns, I contacted Aberpoeth a beach sauna on Aberystwyth seafront with a view to exploring and painting their venue too. 

Another wholesome and thoroughly enjoyable aspect of the Residency this year, was being able to share the space with a fellow Artist, Sally Stafford. Whilst we didn't collaborate practically, we discussed ideas, shared feedback and resources supportively and became good friends. Sally also helped me finally get round to building a website clairehiett.co.uk Diolch Sally! 🙏

Finally, further explorations have come about from being inspired by the textile work at Mud & Wool and nearby businesses, namely Calico Kate in Lampeter and Jen Jones Welsh Blankets, Lampeter and Llanybydder. I purchased some fabric and vintage Welsh blanket offcuts and am exploring the use of these in the display of my drawings of local landmarks, such as Pentre Ifan, Crymych, a place I visited during my Residency. 

Diolch Mud & Wool Creative Escapes for nurturing not only my personal wellbeing, but also my mental health, my creative health, the environment, deeper and new friendships, idea development and endless inspiration!