Embroidered Maps

Maps are symbolic guides from the known to the unknown. They describe patterns of movement, occurrence, and migration, and tell stories of places past, present, and future. During this class, designed for all levels, we will explore various ways that mapping can be combined with embroidery to make unique works of art. We will begin with a meditation on land and place and introductions to different types of embroidered cartography and symbolism. Then we'll explore ways to transfer images to fabric, a plethora of embroidery stitches, and how best to realize each participant's idea from vision to textile. Students will depart this workshop with an embroidered map of their own, which could be incorporated into a garment or pillow, or framed as a work of art.  

Anne Beck & Michelle Wilson are the Rhinoceros Project, a socially engaged art collective. The project is a collaborative art platform involving contemplative artmaking, community sewing circles, papermaking happenings, absurdity and wonder. Through these communal artmaking events, the artists recontextualize art historical images to break down mythologies of colonialization and ensuing socio-political and environmental issues.

Required:

Sketch paper

Drawing tools - pencil & eraser

Embroidery floss

Sewing tools - needles, scissors

Embroidery hoop

Optional:

Fabric

Carbon paper/transfer paper

Needle threader

16 x 16" muslin square

Chalk transfer paper

Fabric pens

Extra sewing needles

Extra embroidery floss

Extra scissors

Extra embroidery hoops