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.’ 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.Born in London, Julie Arkell studied at West Surrey College of Art and Design in Farnham before gaining a diploma in textiles at St Martin’s School of Art. Her work is exhibited all over the world including the UK, NYC and Japan.