Brighton’s Arty: A stitch in time

I’ve always regarded sewing machines as the enemy. As for wool … I’ve been attempting to knit a cushion cover for George (cat two) for three years now. This less than impressive progress being hampered by the penchant of Gilbert (cat one) for eating trailing yarn and attacking the needles. So I’m always in utter awe of the brilliantly innovative textile artists we come across in the course of producing Brighton’s Arty publications.

(And I can only assume that if they possess pets, they’re better behaved than ours!)

A new entrant in this year’s book, Brighton’s Artists 2015, is Agnes Chevalier. Her extensive portfolio of fine art embroidery is inspired by the English countryside, with a special focus on ancient forests and extraordinary trees. Agnes re-works photos and paints the images onto fabric. Then using her trusty Bernina sewing machine she draws with the needle just as she would paint, stitching layers of vibrant embroidery threads to create an incredible 3D effect.

Also taking inspiration from the natural world – but in dramatic contrast – is textile artist, designer and painter Diane Rogers. Her work explores the beauty that is caused by the passage of time and exposure to the natural elements.

Destruction, neglect and decay are revealed in fascinating shapes, textures and patterns, and the results imbue each artwork with a realistic, compelling tactile quality.

On a lighter note, the textile whimsies of Heidi Jane Rhodes can be found at the Naughty Pirates Gallery and I guarantee will make you smile. Using techniques she has specially developed, Heidi’s trademark loose threads lend an energy and movement to iconic buildings and the people who interact with them. Her work has a nostalgic, magical feel – often with a touch of humour – made, she says, for the ‘child in you’. See for yourself at the Arch 237 on the seafront.
www.artymagazines.com

Pic 1: Agnes Chevalier
Pic 2: Diane Rogers
Pic 3: Heidi Jane Rhodes

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