I’m not really “hookin’,” but I am deep in stitching mode! As I’ve been sewing the mini-contributions onto this big canvas, I’ve been thinking about how different this is from painting or drawing. It reminded me of my friend and mentor, artist Wanda Ewing, who made these incredible latch-hook pieces. When I’d ask what she was up to, she’d always smile and say, “Just busy hookin’!” So I’ve been looking into other feminist and women artists who’ve used stitching and how they’ve thought about it.
Embroidery as Artistic Expression
Joy Denise Scott, a textile artist, discusses stitching as this beautiful, meditative practice. She calls it “stitching into the mystery of something,” which she finds freeing. For her, stitching is central to who she is—both an art form and a way to reflect. Then there’s Sophia Narrett, who compares embroidery to drawing. She works in this freehand, intuitive way, letting the process take her wherever it leads.
Historical and Feminist Perspectives
In The Subversive Stitch, art historian Rozsika Parker explores how embroidery has been a way to control women and a form of rebellion throughout history. It’s fascinating how what was once considered “women’s work” became a powerful tool for self-expression.
Embroidery as Political Expression
Feminist artists like Judy Chicago, Faith Ringgold, and Miriam Schapiro used handcrafts like embroidery and quilting to tell stories and make political statements. It’s a whole movement called “craftivism,” where younger generations pick up needlework to protest and empower themselves.
The Intensity of the Process
Louise Gardiner once said something about embroidery that crack
ed me up: “It’s not sipping sherry and listening to classical music—it’s hardcore!” And honestly, I get it now. My stitching is pretty basic compared to these masters, but it’s fun to try something new and switch up my process!
What about you? Know any cool stitching artists or have any thoughts on it?