All images via the artist and Momentum Gallery
Merging traditional craft techniques and the natural world’s abundant materials, Hillary Waters Fayle (previously) meticulously stitches brightly hued florals into found camellia leaves and other foliage. From simple lines and ribbing to fully rendered botanics, the thread-based embellishments interrupt the fragile matter. The resulting sculptures evidence nature’s durability while juxtaposing the organic material with the fabricated additions.
In the interview below, Waters Fayle describes how she gathers leaves and seed pods from areas around her home in Richmond, Virginia, and notes that her practice is rooted in sustainability. By using materials that are already available, like thread from her grandmother, the artist strives for zero-waste in her practice. Overall, her intention is to “bind nature and human touch,” magnifying how the two interact.
Head to Waters Fayle’s site or Instagram to view a larger collection of her embroidered works. You also might enjoy Susanna Bauer’s crocheted leaves.
“Inherent,” hand-stitched camellia leaves, 5 x 5 inches
“Implications,” hand-stitched camellia leaves, 4-3/4 x 4-3/4 inches
“Circle Inscribed,” hand-stitched camellia leaves, 5 x 5 inches
“Reaching Toward The Other,” hand-stitched camellia leaves, 4-1/2 x 2 inches
“Flora Series 7,” hand-embroidered foliage, 6 x 6 inches