Meet Deborah – Wickle Cottage Studio

Canadian-born Deborah Porter has a unique and inspiring relationship with art and creativity. Over a decade ago, Deborah suffered a severe brain injury that left her disabled in many ways, much of which was invisible to those around her.

Through sheer determination, creativity and a love of learning, Deborah turned to arts and crafts as a form of therapy and recovery. She spent hundreds – if not thousands – of hours exploring, practising and creating, gradually working to regain so much of what she had lost.

A lifelong learner, Deborah has explored a wonderful variety of mediums, techniques and materials over the years, including weaving, beading, encaustic wax, acrylics and tin work. For Deborah, creativity is about far more than the finished piece. It is about curiosity, connection, wellbeing and giving yourself permission to simply have a go.

Although Deborah finds it difficult to call herself an artist, she describes herself as a survivor who loves to play with colour, texture, techniques and materials. She is passionate about encouraging others to discover the enjoyment and sense of wellbeing that creativity can bring.

Through Wickle Cottage Studio, Deborah now shares this passion with others through relaxed, welcoming creative and wellbeing workshops, including our popular beaded wall hanging workshops. These workshops are designed to provide an opportunity to slow down, enjoy some creative time, learn something new and create something beautiful to take home.

Whether you're an experienced crafter or someone who hasn't picked up a creative project in years, Deborah's workshops are about exploring, experimenting and enjoying the process – there's no need to be 'arty' or have any previous experience.

Come along, play with colour and texture, meet others and discover just how good it can feel to make something with your own hands.