Do you like the crispy, caramelised edges of cakes or pastries?
They’re the parts that are full of flavour, that adds an extra zing to the taste sensation we’re all looking for.
It’s the same with our textile art. Not necessarily crispy edges perhaps, but edges that lead us to explore the forgotten, the controversial, or the unexplored.
And it’s our enthusiasm that’ll take us on that journey to uncover those little-known facts, unusual or forgotten techniques, contentious contexts, or hidden histories – and that’s contagious.
Often, it’s fear that holds us back from standing out, daring to differ, or showing our willingness to question concepts – but that’s what enthusiasm’s for.
Mix equal parts of confidence with enthusiasm to create the perfect environment to make an idea better – simply by exploring the edges.
I’ve learned a lot through the research I do for my Stitch Safari Podcasts – and one fascinating area has been the Suffrage Movement of the early 1900s.
Studying the embroidered Banners made for the Suffrage marches through London made me explore the edges of the Suffrage Movement.
And surprisingly, I want to take this research further. How? I’m not quite sure yet, but the idea’s there.
One Australian Textile Artist, whose work I admire, and who articulates ideas clearly using text is Nicole Kemp.
Nicole uses embroidery to produce vivid, graphic artworks that are effective, evocative, and emotive.
Simple embroideries with a powerful message – no different from those women marching for equality over 100 years ago.
Courage and enthusiasm in equal parts – it’s contagious.
