An exhibition of textile works by Jan Doherty and photographs by Ellis Roome.  Our exhibition explores living in two places; Jan between County Durham and Leeds; Ellis between Leeds and Liverpool. Each of our homes has its own rhythm and holds part of us within, familiarity, comfort, different perspectives and inspiration.

Jan’s move to Leeds has been to be closer to family.  Although living between rural County Durham and Leeds city, she is drawn to the similarities between the two places; the fields, parks, woodlands, rivers and canal. 

“I love the detail of a leaf, lichen or flower, the flow of the water, the colour and texture of bricks and stones and enjoy the changes throughout the year.  Colour and texture are integral to my work.  I create quilted collages and monoprints using self dyed and printed fabrics, thus creating rich colours, textures and layers that invite deeper exploration.”

Ellis moved to Liverpool to start a course at the University of Liverpool. His work is mainly focussed on the environment around him, and all of these images are from within walking distance of where he lives in both Leeds and Liverpool. He seeks out the differences between the rural areas of suburban Leeds and the urban density of Liverpool city centre.“I am drawn to colour, contrast, strong lines, and symmetry. I prefer to make adjustments in-camera, and only make slight enhancements after taking the photo to draw attention to the details that I originally perceived.”

Jan is Ellis’ ‘Janma’ and they have known each other since he was born 19 years ago.

Jan Doherty, @jandoherty5, has a studio in Assembly House.

Ellis Roome, @ellis.r.photography, currently studying at University of Liverpool.