Tutor profile - Amarjeet Nandhra

Arts, Crafts & Performing Arts

Meet Amarjeet Nandhra, a Textile tutor and artist at the Macbeth Centre

Amarjeet is one of the specialist teachers at the learning hub in Hammersmith

Professional textile artist and experienced educator Amarjeet Nandhra is one of the top tutors at Hammersmith & Fulham's Macbeth Centre. With over 25 years of teaching experience and qualifications from City & Guilds, Amarjeet brings exceptional expertise in traditional Indian textiles and contemporary hand stitching techniques to her specialist courses.

About Amarjeet

Amarjeet is a textile artist and former graphic designer whose journey into textiles began almost by accident over 25 years ago. When a friend gave her an inspiring book about textiles, it sparked a passion that led her to pursue City & Guilds stitching diplomas. What started as personal exploration quickly became her calling when she was invited to teach whilst studying, launching a distinguished career in textile arts education.

Her Professional Background

Originally teaching graphic design, Amarjeet discovered her true passion lay in textiles and hand stitching techniques. She now teaches at prestigious institutions including West Dean in Chichester and CityLit, alongside running her own advanced textile workshops. Her expertise has made her a sought-after educator, occasionally teaching abroad and mentoring students through Hand & Lock, a renowned embroidery organisation.

Her Artistic Innovation

Amarjeet doesn't approach hand stitching like traditional embroidered tablecloths - she uses it more like mark making. She uses stitching to create texture, layering, and movement, combining traditional techniques in contemporary ways. Her innovative approach transforms ancient crafts into modern artistic expression, with colour mixing and composition playing crucial roles in how pieces develop.

Her Teaching Philosophy

Amarjeet believes in guiding students to discover their own creative voice rather than following rigid formulas. She loves seeing students evolve from saying "I haven't got a clue" to finding their unique style. She shows possibilities and gives students tools to shape their creativity, allowing them to take their work in their own direction. Some of her most dedicated learners have studied with her for over 20 years, with several pursuing BAs or MFAs and even winning prestigious awards.

Her Heritage and Artistic Vision

Amarjeet's work is deeply influenced by her Sikh heritage and personal history. Born in Africa, her family moved to England in 1967, whilst her parents were born in what is now Pakistan but was once India. This rich cultural background informs her artistic practice, which explores themes of migration, colonialism, and traditional Indian textiles. She uses visually stunning Indian textile traditions not purely for decoration, but to make powerful social commentary about history and identity.

Current Teaching and Course Offerings

Amarjeet is bringing her expertise to the Macbeth Centre with hand stitching and monoprinting courses starting in September. She begins with foundational techniques, teaching students the basics before encouraging them to experiment and explore their own styles. Her courses combine traditional Indian textile methods with contemporary artistic approaches, offering students a unique opportunity to learn world-class hand stitching techniques whilst developing their personal creative voice in this ancient yet evolving art form.

Want to learn from Amarjeet?

Join her on the Monoprint and hand stitch class at the Macbeth Centre.