Mike Freeman

Canadian born, Northland based artist Mike Freeman has been weaving in flax ( harakeke ) since 2000. He grows, harvests, dyes, weves, dries and shapes each piece of work in his studio just north of Kerikeri. He getrs inspiration from the varying Northland landscapes, from the green hills, to the aqua seas. He has a strong belief in sustainability, and working with natural home grown fibres allows him to stay true to that belief.

Taught in tradional weaving, he adds his own twist to this old art form. With the use of simple patterns and colour he tries to get the flax to speak to people of different clutures and nationalities. Natural fibre means each piece is unique. He enjoys the tests that come from dying and harvesting during dry periods versus wet periods.

Mike has exhibited in Northland and Auckland, and has shown his work in group exhibitions at Kaan Zamaan for many years now.