Process…

I would love to take a moment to delve into a fragment of my ongoing artistic project. For those who are acquainted with my work, it is evident that I thrive on embracing challenges and innovating in the realm of 360-degree hand embroidery. Currently, the serene allure of Japanese gardens, particularly their moss-covered landscapes and Zen gardens, serves as a wellspring of inspiration for my creations. The tranquil ambiance these gardens exude has a profound impact, whether one is experiencing them firsthand or admiring them from a distance.

Interpreting what I visually see is all that I am able to achieve, as I have explored the possibility of traveling within the United Kingdom to visit a Japanese-inspired garden as a form of primary research. However, I found that I am highly restricted due to accessibility; my powered wheelchair does not cope well on gravel and steep inclines. Making the best of this situation, I have viewed multiple Japanese gardens online and been truly inspired by the intricate details and peaceful ambiance they exude. Despite the physical limitations hindering my ability to explore these gardens in person, I have found a wealth of inspiration and tranquility through the detailed representations available online. Reflecting on these virtual visits, I appreciate the beauty and serenity captured, allowing me to immerse myself in the essence of Japanese garden culture from the comfort of my home.

I always design and create elements of nature, but recently I've delved into the intricate world of Japanese gardens. The vivid red hue of the bridges captivated me against the serene backdrop of lush greens. Intrigued.

I began crafting paper models of these bridges, aiming to decipher their essence and translate it into my hand embroidery.

Next, my immediate task was to carefully transfer the intricate design I had conceptualised onto the fabric awaiting the touch of my hands for the hand embroidery process.

Here are the completed elements of the bridge that I hand embroidered using a beautiful vibrant red DMC 666 embroidery threads. In order to ensure the structural integrity and longevity of the bridge, I thoughtfully integrated a delicate 0.35 wire within the embroidery, marrying artistry with practicality.

As you can see, this piece rests on my desk—a completed bridge, standing strong and true at 12 cm long and 4 cm high. To be completely transparent, I felt an overwhelming sense of joy witnessing its completion, especially since my prior projects centered solely on nature-inspired creations.

Here is the completed bridge once more, captured from a fresh perspective. This angle reveals a delicate quality, showcasing its intricate construction. Through the application of a textile hardening medium, the bridge's apparent fragility is transformed into a resilient visual charm, preserving its delicate allure while strengthening its physical form.

There are numerous websites available on the internet where one can immerse themselves in the serene beauty of Japanese gardens. Simply taking the time to explore these sites can have a positive impact on one's overall sense of well-being, making it a noteworthy point to consider.

One last point, have you enjoyed me sharing some of my process? if so comment below, what else would you like to see?