Meet The Maker: Tamra

Who are you, where are you from and what do you make?

I’m Louisa, I’m 28 and I live in West Sussex with my boyfriend and our dogs Snippet & Womble. I responsibly forage and press seaweeds from around the British Coast! 

What inspires you?

I’m always inspired/amazed by the beauty of nature and how intricate and vibrant seaweeds from the British coastline can be. I think a lot of people assume seaweed is smelly and/or dull but so much of it is so colourful and delicate – this is what I try to champion in my work. 

What is your workshop luxury?

Womble’s bed at my feet. She acts like a pair of woolly socks in colder months!

Your favourite studio lunch?

A quick fry up of veggies with my best friend’s delicious chickpeas from Bold Bean Co.

Best spot in the British Isles?

It has to be Tiree, a beautiful little island in the Hebrides which happens to have incredible seaweed and a wonderful pace of life!

What do you find challenging about being a creative?

Perhaps the lack of guaranteed income but that is outweighed by having total freedom with your own time. 

What would you like to learn next?

I would like to have a go at cyanotypes with seaweed as well as learning how to frame myself so that I can increase my range of options. 

How do you let your hair down?

Getting out onto the water with friends and a well stocked cool box!

What are you listening to at the moment?

Music by Palace or Van Morrison is always on repeat in our house. I’m also a huge fan of Desert Island Discs and The Table Manners podcasts.

What makes you feel well chuffed?

An early morning walk on a beautiful day before the world has woken up.