GRAHAM HOLLICK

“My work is inspired by the world around me. Whether it be phrases I hear on the radio or in a podcast, or statements made with graffiti and street art . I have always been influenced by naive and folk art as well and often use motifs and techniques used in patchwork and quilting in my work.”

I use the traditional technique of rug hooking, which involves cutting fabrics (usually wool) into strips and then hooking them with a tool similar to a crochet hook through a hessian base fabric. I work on a fairly small frame edged with a grip that holds the hessian in place, but allows the fabric to be easily moved around as the design progresses. Once the piece is finished I use various ways to back it or frame it , depending on the end use.
I use virtually 100% recycled materials. The base materials are usually vintage sacks, and often what is printed on them becomes part of the final image. The strips I use are cut for used clothes and scarves . For me this is an integral part of my practice. I have also collaborated with denim brand Blackhorse Lane Ateliers to make work from the offcuts of the jean production.
My work is inspired by the world around me. Whether it be phrases I hear on the radio or in a
podcast, or statements made with graffiti and street art . I have always been influenced by naive and folk art as well and often use motifs and techniques used in patchwork and quilting in my work.

The technique of Rug Hooking obviously originates in peoples need to make rugs for their homes and although I sometimes make works that have an end use as a rug , I also like to take the skill into other directions such as furniture, cushions clothing or simply as wall hangings.

Graham graduated from Winchester School of art with a degree in textiles and fashion in 1988,around 30 years later he took up the age old art of rug hooking and since the first covid lock down this has become his obsession.

Graham has been creative director with an extensive international background, he is a recognised expert in art direction, creative consultancy, design and trend forecasting. Based in London, he has worked with an impressive list of international clients. His work has ranged from producing catalogues and styling photo shoots to art directing advertising campaigns.

Throughout his career he has taught at Art colleges in the UK and Europe, as well as mentoring many students through their work experience placements during his time in Paris. He also founded the ethical home textiles brand Stitch by Stitch, which works with textile artisans in India and Nepal.

Graham Hollick is the only uk artist to be selected to show at the Contextile Art Textile biennale in Portugal. His work has been exhibited as part of a group show ‘Beyond the White Cube’ at the City Lit Gallery in Holborn. In 2025 Graham had his first solo show at All Good Bookshop in north London.