My name is Carol Bowes-Alcock and I specialise in using wool to create art. Wool is amazingly versatile and it can be used in so many ways.

I studied Art and Design at Cumbria College of Art and Design followed by a Degree in Graphic Design at Leeds Metropolitan University. This led to a 10 year career in graphics. Life led me away from art and design but I’ve come full circle and returned to my roots, initially through painting and now through wool. Wool has captured my imagination.

I grew up with a farming background, so it’s lovely finding a link to what I knew growing up. I now live on a croft on the west coast of Scotland on the Ardnamurchan Peninsula. My husband and I specialise in rearing Shetland sheep.

Wool is a clever and versatile material. Its primary function is to protect sheep from the elements. Each year, sheep need to shed their fleece and they do this naturally or by being sheared. It’s great to be able to work with a product that allows a working partnership with sheep, rather than exploitation.

Wool can be used to create fabric in the form of felt and yarns, which in turn create clothing, blankets, rugs and carpets. It can be used for art, sculptures, decorations, bags, upholstery and many household items. It’s also used for insulation and packaging.