Weaver and fibre artist Natasha Christensen creates contemporary textiles inspired by the colours, textures and beauty of Aotearoa’s native plant life. She works exclusively with natural fibres, hand-dyeing her yarn before weaving it into distinctive throws, wraps and other beautiful textiles.

She was mentored by master weaver Esther Nitschke MBE and continues to weave on large, handcrafted floor looms made in Marton, Rangitīkei, in the late 1970s by Esther’s husband, renowned loom maker Bruce Nitschke.

Natasha works from a large, light-filled studio on a farm just 10 minutes from Palmerston North, sharing the creative space with her father, rural artist Graham Christensen. She also teaches weaving classes and workshops throughout the year.

The studio is open to the public on the first Sunday of each month, from 10am to 4pm. Visitors are welcome to see Natasha’s work, watch her weave and have a go at weaving their own colourful mug rug to take home for free.

Her work balances artistry and everyday usefulness. A handwoven throw may hang as a statement piece in a gallery, yet it is equally made to be lived with — draped over a chair, wrapped around shoulders, and woven into the quiet rituals of daily life.

Slow Woven celebrates the slow nature of weaving, the patience and mindfulness required, and the true beauty of a unique hand-crafted textile.  

You can read more about Natasha in a recent articles here