Stitching the Self
Identity and the needle arts
Johannah Amos, Lisa Binkley (Anothlogy Editors)
Bloomsbury Publishing
Self expression through the tactile genre of art is not a new realisation. As humans, we all crave a pathway in life, a foundation and the inner knowledge of who we are. whatever art type we favour, it is much more than a sketch or stitch, it is about the emotional aspects too, the reasons we create and the feelings which evolve from creating. Self care and textiles is now more and more of a thing. Textile art is often judged as a home craft, something a person who has now left their former career would do on the side, maybe a night class. This title, expands on that one line view, widening out the evidence to show that it stems from so much more; bringing in political thoughts as well as social and historical. Artists such as Louise Bourgeois are metioned, to give evidence of how art can make traumatic experiences softer; no we are aware that art is not a cure, yet it can be a self continuing factor. I know myself that I have faced the hardest of times, with my sewing case firmly in my canvas cloth bag. I somehow feel more human internally via the knowledge its there with me - therefore because I have the tools on board I must be visually identified as an artist. Stitch by stitch, I work things out. It is my calculator, my compass.
Please do note, that although this title has been my nighttime read of choice, it is not a relaxing snuggle up, this is what I deem as a depth of reading title. I would liken it to the difference between a beach read and a Dickens; both are no less of worth, they are just made for different occations. If you are studying textiles, this will excite you. If you are a newbie who wants to create small craft subjects, this may at this time go over your head.
Both of the editors who have brought this book together are based in Canada, with University roles within the arts.
Value this book for what it is, let it sit and know you do not need to read it all in one.night. However I do wager that is you are serious about your art, you will return to it.