Holly Searle - Subversive Stitcher [NX096]

In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Holly Searle.

Holly is a visual artist who transforms vintage tea towels into striking, subversive works of textile art,

In the first part of the NeedleXChange, Jamie speaks with visual artist Holly Searle about the origins of her creativity - from childhood memories and charity shop treasures to her fascination with nostalgic and domestic objects.

Holly shares how personal history, humour, and a love of the overlooked inform her practice, and we begin to explore the foundations of her acclaimed Tea Towel Project.

Timestamps:

00:00:00 - Introduction

00:01:20 - Owls and other Curiosities

00:07:19 - The Impact of Objects on Memory

00:10:08 - Art and Creativity in Everyday Life

00:13:09 - The Role of Art in Community

00:16:02 - Dyslexia and Creative Expression

00:18:57 - The Journey to Tea Towels

00:21:41 - Tea Towels as a Medium for Expression

00:24:44 - The Evolution and Cultural Significance of Tea Towels

00:30:58 - The Allure of Nostalgia in Marketing

00:34:00 - Art as a Medium for Social Commentary

Links:

Website: thesubversivestitcher.com

Instagram: the_subversive_stitcher

Intro music is Electric Kids by Falcon Dives via Epidemic Sound.

About NeedleXChange:

NeedleXChange is a conversation podcast with embroidery and textile artists, exploring their process and practice. Hosted by Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers, it is an in-depth showcase of the best needlework artists on the planet.

Visit the NeedleXChange website: https://www.needl.exchange

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If you want embroidery inspiration and regular doses of textile art, visit the Mr X Stitch site here: https://www.mrxstitch.com

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