To see what I’m up to now, follow me here: http://joannebkaarbakersbotanistswhalers.blogspot.com/

I've continued to experiment with fibre arts, particularly papermaking by hand and have been self-employed since graduating with an MA (Textiles dept) from Manchester Metropolitan University in 1992. Most of my papers are rag based - Sheila Roderick from the Scalpay Weaving shed in the Western Isles, sends me all of her waste linen fibre to make into paper.  I have completed many residencies including 5 months in Taiwan at the Chaoyang University and the Su-Ho Paper Museum. The Guild of Master Craftsmen Publications published my book on papermaking and bookbinding in 2003. My work had since featured in other publications.
In 2009/10/11 my work was accepted for juried exhibitions in Korea, Tasmania, Germany, USA and the UK. 
 
In September 09, I exhibited my work 'The Westland' in The Anchorage gallery, New Zealand and at the Same time In Caithness Horizons Scotland. This was a collaboration with New Zealand artist, Lynn Taylor. Together we researched The maiden voyage of the Westland ship in 1879. We made several TV appearances on both sides of the globe on BBC TV and New Zealand TV, discussing our work. Playwright George Gunn reviewed our exhibition for Hi-Arts.

As part of the exhibition, we organised a paper boat fundraiser to help keep Mary-Ann's cottage open for future generations.  Mary-Ann's father was a member of the crew on the Westland. We received paper boats from 122 different boat makers in 25 different countries and sold by secret silent auction. We raised £1340.

I am currently working with the Horse and Bamboo theater company on the development for their production about Angus McPhee Weaver of Grass.