My 3D embroidery practice brings together the usage of modern technology such as laser cutters and CAD software to create a plastic base into which I can use a traditional craft such as, embroidery to create these pieces. Each piece is lovingly hand cross-stitched with modified traditional Ukrainian patterns.
Cherries, 2023
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Styrofoam, embroidery floss, clay, acrylic paint, acrylic plastic, cotton fabric,
43x54x24cm
‘Cherries’ is the fourth instalment of my embroidery series. Having done a symbolic watermelon previously I wanted to continue the theme of fruit for this project. Although cherries do not hold as much of a significant meaning as watermelon, cherries are still very prominent in Ukraine as a flavour in sweet snacks and drinks. It is a berry that I associate with the summers I spent in Ukraine, with my grandmother giving me homemade cherry jam. Fruit and cherries in general have such a vibrant existence and so does embroidery as a tradition that transcends borders.
Watermelon Edition 1, 2023
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Laser cut acrylic plastic, hand embroidered (cross-stitch) with thread, MDF
55x63x8cm
My ‘Watermelon’ series is a continuation of me exploring traditional embroidery within 3D forms. I began with my ‘Talisman’ piece which was my first attempt and with this I wanted to make something that was intricate not just in pattern and form, but also in colour. I experimented with curved edges and pattern gradients to achieve the desired aesthetic. I am firm in my stance on creating art that modernises the concept of Ukrainian identity. Although at first it is a watermelon, which invokes happy and summery feelings, it is a tribute to Kherson and its liberation in the latter half of 2022. Kherson, as a region is well known for their watermelons to which Ukrainians from all over the country will travel to buy them and it felt like an appropriate celebration of such a victory.
Talisman (Талісман), 2022
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Laser cut acrylic plastic, hand embroidered (cross-stitched) with thread, MDF
65x65x15cm
My piece ‘Talisman’ is the first in my 3D cross stitch series. With this series I am greatly interested in the relationship between traditional practices and modern technology. The use of a laser cutter allows me to create forms and use materials that would not otherwise be used for embroidery and folk patterns which is what is the focal point of this series. I have been drawn to Ukrainian patterns throughout my artistic development. Our traditional patterns hold a lot of meaning in the symbols and colours used, even from what region of Ukraine they have been taken from. With ‘Talisman’ I had been inspired by looking at the Ukrainian Armed Forces and their uniforms. Some units were using simplified versions of our national symbol the ‘Tryzub’ which goes back to the Kyivan Rus’ (10th century). This symbol is also said to depict the Ukrainian word ‘Воля’ (Volya), meaning freedom.
Life (Життя), 2022
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Laser cut acrylic plastic, hand embroidered with embroidery thread, plaster resin casts painted with gouache and acrylic paint.
23x38x19cm
‘Life’ was a precursor to ‘Talisman’ it had been my initial introduction to embroidery outside of its traditional means. The Soviet Union had left a lot of itself within the countries that were a part of it before its collapse. I wanted to depict that even though communism was a conformist society that also was repressive especially to nations with a strong sense of identity, our original culture still lived and thankfully continued to live vibrantly within those brutalist architectural walls. Hence, the use of bright colours with the traditional Ukrainian patterns. The eyes on the top of the buildings can represent a few things; first being the longing for a future outside of a repressive society especially, as all Ukrainian customs and traditions were almost forbidden. Secondly, the watchful gaze of the state and ensuring that no one stepped out of line.
