Maps Series 1 - 'Just One More Thing'

"Just one more thing" is well recognised as television detective Columbo's catchphrase, and this was a programme I loved as a child (I love it just as much as an adult). When they were first shown in the 70's I was very young and so they have always formed a comforting childhood memory; but with re-runs it's something I can watch even now, and so when I cosy up in front of the tv to watch an episode, it's a link back to those younger days, a part of childhood I can still take refuge in.

In my opinion, Columbo has always been the best detective going and I think it must be partly down to him that being a detective/secret agent was high up on my list of what to be when I grew up. This theme also occupied a lot of my childhood play when I formed the C.I.D.S.A. (Criminal Investigation Department and Secret Agents). I'm actually reluctant to call it play because, even though I was a child, I took it incredibly seriously, compiling files, studying books on being a secret agent, and undertaking my own investigations

This latest image in my embroidery series, with its cosy armchair and the soft glow of the lamps, signifies comfort, home and safety; an embodiment of the feeling that Columbo induces. On a cold, grey, rainy afternoon there is nothing nicer than snuggling up with a warm drink and an episode of Columbo.

"Just one more thing"

A little corner to curl up and dream in, a reading nook, a staircase curving away out of sight. Before I moved into my house this was the kind of image I held in my mind for my own little place, my own little home. The staircase is inspired by the one in fashion designer Jessica Ogden's home; I was enchanted with the sculptural way it swept around, like something from a fairy-tale.

Home is something I am very pre-occupied with - what makes a home? How do peoples idea of home differ? I'm sure I will pursue this in a future project. I'm already making notes and plans.

Amanda xxx