Rhyannan (b. 1990) is an artist based in Bristol, UK, with a captivating artistic journey that spans continents. Originally from Sheffield, she migrated with her family to New Zealand before settling in Cardiff. Fleeing an academic philosophy degree to pursue art, Rhyannan's work emanates from a place of profound contemplation.

Graduating from the Arts University Bournemouth in 2014 with a BA in Costume for Performance design, she delved into the enchanting world of dyes, discovering a passion for Japanese arashi shibori. This zen-like discipline captivated her, requiring both physical and mental focus. In 2018, she transitioned from the costume world to follow her artistic calling.

Rhyannan's expertise has garnered global recognition, with exhibitions at esteemed venues like the Toyama Museum of Art and Design and the Japanese Embassy. She spent a month in Japan doing research, with grants from the Daiwa Foundation, Great British Sasakawa Foundation, and along with scholarships from Yoshiko Wada of the World Shibori Network. Mentored by masters like Kaei Hayakawa and Anna-Lisa Hedstrom, Rhyannan elevates her craft to fine art levels.

With a rich teaching background spanning 7 years, Rhyannan passionately shares her knowledge of Arashi Shibori at institutions like the Guild of Spinners, Weavers, and Dyers Summer School, inspiring others to delve into this intricate art form. Additionally, Rhyannan extends her teaching expertise from her own studio in Bristol, creating a welcoming space for enthusiasts to explore and master the techniques of Arashi Shibori under her guidance.

Awards and Grants

World Shibori Network Foundation Scholarship - 2024
World Shibori Network Foundation Scholarship - 2023
WECA Creative Business Development Grant - 2022
Great British Saskawa Foundation Award - 2021
Daiwa Foundation Small Grant - 2020
KOGEI Award Shortlist - 2020
Arts Council Emergency Funding - 2020

Galleries and Exhibitions

Japanese Embassy, London - 2023
Associated Guild of Spinners, Weavers and Dyers Tutor Exhibition - 2023
Primavera Gallery, Cambrige - 2023
The Stratford Hotel London - 2023
The Folk House Tutor Show - 2023
Island Artist Show - 2022
Toyama Prefecture Musuem of Art and Design, Japan - 2021
Sustainable Fashion Week exhibition - 2021
CASS Art Solo Show - 2021
Island Artist Show - 2021
Island Artist Show - 2019
The Folk House - 2019

Public Speaking

Japanese Embassy - Arashi Shibori - 2023
British Millinery Society - Introduction to Shibori - 2023
South West Herbalists - Natural Dyes - 2023
University of the West of England - Visible Mending - 2021
Hyper Japan Festival - Shibori in Japan - 2021
Hyper Japan Festival - Visible Mending - 2021
Avon Guild of Spinners, Weavers, Dyers - 2019

Teaching

Workshops from own Studio - 2022 - present
Assosiated Guild of Spinners, Weavers, Dyers - Summer School - 2023
Hyper Japan Festival - 2023
Hyper Japan Festival - 2022
Makershed Bristol - Natural Dye Weeked - 2022
Winterbourne Barn - Natural Dyes - 2021
Kingshill House - Natural Dyes - 2020
Avon Guild of Spinners, Weavers, Dyers - 2019
Bristol Folk House - 2016 - 2022