Arts Thread

I understand the word ‘feminine’ to be associated with the beauty of organic form, nature, strength, and the exploration of emotion. In my exploration of 'the grotesque', I've observed preserved organs and taxidermy through museum visits, as well as exploring nature and capturing natural forms. I connect with these themes through materiality, process, and communication through stitch. Highlighting the beauty that arises from the uncomfortable, my work constantly combines the body and the natural world. Through sampling, I use mixed embroidery methods to translate textures and forms collected through research and drawing. The samples I produce provide a narrative, and silhouettes are inspired by wearable art and historical costume. Additionally, my illustrative embroidery translates forms of creatures and animals, inspired by emotive storytelling and the dark history of fairy tales. Within my collection, materials have been sourced ethically, utilising off-cuts and donations, kindly supported by Ayrshire company, MYB textiles, producer of Scottish lace.