ALISON KING - Textile Artist

I’ve loved art as long as I can remember. Enrolled in professional art classes at the age of 9, I was able to explore many different art mediums throughout my childhood years. My early interest in art led me to later study at the Ontario College of Art & Design in Toronto.

There, I studied graphic design and photography before finding my ‘home’ in the textile program. It was there I learned how to thread a sewing machine for the first time and my love for textiles was born. In 2003, I completed an internship in Washington, DC and began free motion stitching.

My artistic style developed when I found a way to creatively combine my photographic imagery with my textile work. It was a combination that awarded me a scholarship before earning my Bachelor of Design in 2005.

My inspirations for my work are endless. During my years spent in Toronto, I found inspiration in the grit and character of the buildings—the ways they deteriorated and the colours and textures that emerged. In my late twenties, I moved to the west coast of BC, and instantly found endless inspiration in the lush rain forests. Now, living in Cochrane, Alberta I am inspired by my surroundings yet again. I strive to continually challenge myself through my work, experimenting with different subjects which keeps my own creative mind stimulated.

I have been fortunate to receive numerous awards for my work throughout the years. My art has been exhibited both nationally and internationally and can be found in private collections around the globe.

Daily, I am grateful for the gift of being able to create and share my work with others. It is a passion, an outlet, and a huge part of who I am.