What is textile performance? Why is a sewing machine so loud? Does technology have a place in art?
This week, Emma is joined by Harriet Riddell, a textile performance artist who creates art with her sewing machine. Harriet stitches stories and portraits in public places as she sees them - think life drawing blended with free‑motion embroidery.
Harriet has travelled the world with her sewing machine, stitching in bustling Indian markets, the humidity of Taiwan, and the joyful chaos of Glastonbury festival, as well as many other places.
Her work is spontaneous, she doesn't have a plan before she starts, instead she draws creativity from connection with people and places. To bolster this, people can pedal a bicycle alongside Harriet which powers her sewing machine, and this connection and conversation also influences her creative process.
In this episode Harriet shares:
Harriet’s warmth, passion and energy is contagious, and you don’t need to be into sewing or embroidery to enjoy this episode. By the end, you might just find yourself itching to pick up a needle or try out a sewing machine, or at the very least, look at the world a little differently.
Check out Harriet on socials and explore her website InStitchyou where you can try a free mini class on free motion embroidery.
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