Katherine Claypole

‘I like to stitch my drawings with a needle and thread. I think it is the repetitive act of threading the needle, knotting the thread, piecing the surface, back and forth, in and out, and in and out, and over and over again. I stitch patterns that allude to a space that exists in 3 dimensions yet sit firmly within 2. My work is informed by geometry, optical illusion and the love of science fiction.’

Born in Hawke's Bay, Claypole spent her 20s travelling the world. On her return she studied painting at Unitec in Auckland and then spent two long and cold years in Christchurch where she attained a Master's Degree in Fine art from the University of Canterbury. She is now is a resident at Castlecliff Beach along Whanganui coast.

Claypole has become known for her hand stitched drawings and collaged artwork. Drawn to the repetitive act of threading a needle, “knotting the thread, piercing the surface, back and forth, in and out, and in and out, and over and over again”, her intricate patterns are entirely hand stitched, lending the lattice works a temporal, almost meditative quality that reveals the patience and precision underlying Katherine’s practice.

Claypole has been included in exhibitions throughout the country and was invited to exhibit in Munich, Germany. Her work is held in both private and public collections.

Katherine was a finalist in both the Parkin Drawing Prize and National Contemporary Art Award in 2023.