James Gladwell
b. 1952
Portrait of James Gladwell
Born into the Romany gypsy community, James Gladwell was taught needlework by his grandmother when he was seven years old. Highly independent, he works a lot from the quiet of his own flat, and spends hours stitching intricate designs onto found materials. He draws whatever interests him, from a memory of a skiing trip in Switzerland to a TV programme about Cleopatra. Stitching is something that is portable, relaxing and satisfies his need to create.
“My passion is all about needlework. I get my inspiration from my dreams; like the island with birds and the mermaid. I always find my own materials and cloths. I’m self-taught, but staff at the Art Barn have also shown me how to crochet and cast-off knitting.”
BSL / About the Artist
Interpreted by Deaf artist Rebecca Vaughan
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Subtitled Film
BSL Film
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Barrington Farm is a unique independent day centre for learning disabled adults in Walcott, North Norfolk. The hub is a converted barn which houses an art centre, gym and cafe and social centre, all sat on a 22-acre rare breeds farm. The ‘Art Barn’ is a fully equipped centre, which specialises in enabling people of all abilities to express themselves, explore emotive responses to materials and find their individual voice through their creativity.