Step Inside the Loom: Experience Helena Powell's Residency before it ends

This summer, Mill Tye Gallery is delighted to present handwoven textiles and abstract woven artworks by Suffolk artist Helena Powell, whose thoughtful practice is inspired by the county's landscapes, coastline and changing light.

There are some exhibitions you visit.

Then there are exhibitions that invite you to become part of them.

This summer, Mill Tye Gallery has been quietly transformed into something rather special. Textile artist Helena Powell has turned part of the gallery into a working weaving studio, giving visitors the rare opportunity to experience an artist's creative process as it unfolds.

Instead of arriving to see finished work alone, you'll discover a living studio where looms are in motion, ideas are taking shape and conversations happen naturally between artist and visitor.

Alongside Helena's working studio, visitors can explore a beautiful collection of handwoven scarves and original textile artworks, each inspired by the colours, textures and quiet beauty of the Suffolk landscape. Every piece is individually woven, making it both a unique work of art and a lasting reminder of time spent in this special part of the country.

No two days are ever the same.

You might find Helena adjusting the tension on her loom, experimenting with colour and natural fibres, talking about sustainability, or sharing stories about the craft she has spent years developing. You may leave understanding weaving in a completely new way.

Or you may simply find yourself slowing down.

One of the most surprising aspects of the residency has been the conversations it has inspired. Visitors have shared memories of parents and grandparents who wove, spoken about old looms tucked away in lofts and attics, and discovered unexpected connections between weaving, engineering, mathematics, design, landscape and wellbeing.

What begins as curiosity often becomes something much more personal.

At Mill Tye Gallery, we have always believed that meeting the artist adds another dimension to collecting original work. It creates a connection to both the maker and the story behind each piece—something that stays with you long after you leave the gallery.

As the residency enters its final weeks, visitors are also being invited to become part of Helena's work by adding a few rows to a collaborative community weaving. The finished piece will be sold in support of the East Anglian Air Ambulance, giving everyone who takes part the opportunity to contribute to something that is both creative and meaningful.

Whether you've woven before or have never touched a loom, everyone is welcome.

It takes only a few moments to add your own thread, but those few moments become part of a much larger story woven together by hundreds of different hands.

There is a Japanese phrase, Ichigo Ichie, meaning "one time, one meeting." It reminds us to treasure each encounter because it will never be repeated.

Helena Powell's residency feels very much like that.

Every visitor brings their own experiences, and every contribution becomes part of a unique artwork that could only have been created through this shared experience.

With just a few weeks remaining, this is a wonderful opportunity to experience Helena's working studio, discover her latest woven textiles and perhaps find a piece that brings a little of the Suffolk landscape into your own home.

Come and meet Helena.

Take a seat at the loom.

Add a few rows to the community weaving.

Ask questions.

Share a story.

You might leave with far more than an appreciation of weaving. You may leave with a beautiful handwoven scarf, an original textile artwork, and a memorable connection with the artist who created it.

Helena Powell's Summer Residency

Mill Tye Gallery

Until 23 August 2026

Admission is free, and everyone is welcome.

One of the greatest joys of hosting Helena's residency has been seeing so many people come through the gallery doors to share in the experience. Thank you to everyone who has visited, taken time to chat, contributed to the community weaving, and supported Helena's work. Your enthusiasm, curiosity and kindness have helped make this such a special summer at Mill Tye Gallery.

If you haven't yet visited, we'd love to welcome you before the residency comes to a close on 23 August.

Feeling Inspired?

At Mill Tye Gallery, our workshops offer the chance to slow down, learn something new and enjoy the satisfaction of making by hand. From textiles to printmaking and more, there's something for everyone.

Browse our workshops and discover your next creative adventure.

LEARN MORE →

Summer Architecture in Paint, Collage & Stitch
 Workshop