Lucy Alterman
— Tutor

With over two decades of experience, I am a silk artist specialising in French steam‑set dyes and the traditional Gutta‑Serti resist technique. My practice is rooted in the studio, where I have developed innovative resist methods that allow me to retain the natural flow of colour on silk while exploring texture, movement and depth.

Art has always been part of my life—my parents met at art school, and I began my own creative journey with a foundation course before pursuing a degree in law. Twenty years ago, I returned to my artistic roots, studying silk painting with renowned expert Tony Wigg. Since then, I have continued to refine and expand the technique, combining controlled resist work with expressive watercolour bleeds to create pieces that range from vibrant and energetic to atmospheric and contemplative.

Inspired by the trees of London’s parks, I often incorporate mono‑printed tree rings into my work, using their quiet beauty to explore themes of time, resilience and growth. Alongside my fine art practice, I create eco‑conscious silk artwear from recycled silk.

I exhibit regularly with East Finchley Open Artists and have taught workshops in both London and Charleston USA

Silk Painting is a great medium for facilitating individual creativity and freeing up artistic expression, complementing other forms of art. I encourage students to experiment with techniques through demonstrations and guiding to foster independence and to explore new ideas.