Julie Arkell is one of England's best recognized contemporary folk artists working in papier-mâché and mixed media. Julie works in papier mache, mixing vintage fabrics, scraps of poems and words she loves as well as knits and stitching to her dolls. Her unique sense of 'making' is inspired by old toys, painting, stories and folk art. Her work is imbued with wistfulness, a sense of memories, charm and whimsy all at once.

Arkell says: ‘I enjoy the ‘used-ness’ of things like old pieces of material, leaves from a book, parts of worn clothes, patches and darns. Making the creatures and objects from papier-mâché helps me to use the fabric and wools collected to embroider words or a story that has meaning for me.’

For Christmas '25 Julie Arkell created a cast of whimsical characters and objects which made up a fantastical scene in our shop window. Her folk inpired peices are perfect for a winter wonderland theme and bursts with life making for a wonderful addition to any collection. We are so excited with her papier-mâché creations and the variety of work she has created, from Dolls, Donkeys and Ducks to Trees, Birds and Stars and they are all availble in the Gallery and Online.