background information:
Yuli Somme (MA Textiles) is a felt maker whose own journey began the day she left school. "...An unpromising student, lacking in ability and confidence."she discovered her passion for wool through spinning, dyeing and knitting. She trained as a weaver and worked at Coldharbour Mill Working Wool Museum as a researcher.
Visiting an exhibition of contemporary felt making in 1988 took her down new pathways, exploring the wool in its raw state. Its connection with the land, its history and culture fascinated her.
For 20 years she has shared her excitement with adults and students of all ages (through the Devon Guild of Craftsmen, Big Hand Little Hand scheme), working on themed collaborative projects at primary level and individual development work for GCSE and A level students and beyond.
Yuli's inspirational approach to this art takes students to the heart of what it is to use one's hands, to deconstruct, reconstruct and make something so satisfying to the soul and create something from nothing.
Widely known for her ethical and environmental approach to her craft, Yuli has recently presented her work and researches at academic and industrial conferences.
