I recently had the great good fortune of seeing StitchPUNK, which is a SAQA global exhibit. To say that these artists are creative is a huge understatement! The exhibit statement (best read with a Rod Sterling/Twilight Zone accent) says “Imagine, if you will, an existence where you pull one string and reality unravels. Travel to a world of unique creations to explore alternate timelines, sentient beasts, bodies merged with technology, and more.”
The artworks produced for this exhibit were unique, many involving vintage embellishments. Many used unusual materials and required some significant structural engineering. Some had a great sense of humor, some were weird, and all things in between.
This piece by Kate Crossley is on the front of the catalog, and rightly so. It’s called “Minerva.StitchPunk Warrior.” It’s an homage to her mother and grandmother whom she describes as “warrior stitch women,” who were always ready to rescue something with needle and thread.
Let’s take a look at some of the awesome details. The hat featured storage for scissors, pins, bobbins, thread, a darning mushroom, and much more. I wonder if that cyborg eye makes it easier to see tiny stitches?
This armor is so fantastic.
And look at the collection of seam rippers, stored conveniently so they’re ready to be put to work.
The back includes holsters for a fold-out fan and a paper umbrella. And, of course, more spools of thread on the left sleeve.
She even has a compass and -what? – a canteen? hanging from the back of her corset.
Likewise, the right sleeve also holds more spools of thread and pins.
Amazing, right? I can’t imagine the creativity, engineering, and collecting that went into creating this piece. Major kudos to Kate Crossley!
Ellen Lindner
P.S. StitchPunk will be traveling for another few years. See the current schedule and all the pieces.
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