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A CAREER IN STITCHING

Euer thought ofgoing Professional? Sarah offers these wise words

threads to build up shading, just like in my drawings.”

The inspirationforSarahs designs comes from the world around her — from life in all its forms. “I definitely have an affinity with the natural world — birds in particular, which for me represent freedom. I’m also inspired by the history and continuation of crafts in society. My work is a way ofperpetuating this, and keeping crafts at the forefront ofpeople’s minds. I think this is particularly important in a world where technology is increasing. It’s a real tragedy when traditional skills are neglected.”

Some of Sarah’s most recent ventures have included a year-long embroidery residency at the Kinross Wolaroi School in Australia in 2010. It was an incredibly exciting and encouraging experience for her. “The scheme was set up to broaden the experiences of the students by exposing them to someone who lived and practised art-making in a foreign country. While working there I did some

IT’S a sad fact, but pursuing art as a career means l’m often living hand to mouth. The freelance naturę of the work I do means l’m always applying for new opportunities. This is exciting, but it’s also very tiring! I also hate pricing my work - it’s without a doubt the hardest

lesson teaching, ran workshops and worked towards a solo exhibition at the regional gallery. I was also awarded a bursary to attend the annual TEXTILE Fiber Forum, which takes place at the school. That was a wonderful networking and exhibiting opportunity for me!”

While she was in Australia, Sarah was inspired to begin a series called ‘Home Invasion, which is an ongoing project. “People often describe hand embroidery as therapeutic, and I wanted to channel this idea as a way of tackling my fears about all the deadly creatures there are in Australia! The concept has a lot morę potential, and I cant wait to see where it will take me in the futurę.” It’s elear that Sarah really relishes her work and all the variety that goes with it, and she’s fuli of plans for the next decade. Keep an eye out for new pieces and news on the Guerilla Embroidery website or follow her on Twitter for special updates and stitching gossip!

thing about being an embroidery artist. Each piece takes me a long time, and if I were to price it according to the time spent on it, hardly anyone would be able to afford it! It’s hard striking the balance between reasonable pricing and paying myself a reasonable wagę!

IN THE HOT SEAT

Sarah Terry talks challenges, ironing and her passion for ‘troubling imagery’...

BEST BIT OF THE JOB?

It's a very satisfying feeling to be able to earn a living doing what I love, and though it may be hard, I wouldn't have it any other way. Luckily, my passion for teaching rivals my passion for art, so l'm able to combine these.

BEST STITCHING ADVICE?

Iron everything, all the time. It makes finished pieces look fantastic!

BEST THING ABOUT BEING PART OF THE CREATIVE WORLD?

The people. I’m a member of several online communities who are supportive and constantly creative! It's very inspiring.

BEST WAY TO RELAX?

I like to read. My favourite authors are Terry Pratchett and Neil Gaiman, but l'll pretty much read anything. I’m also interested in amateur dramatics, and have been in several plays.

WHAT ARE YOU WORKING ON AT THE MOMENT?

My 'Home lnvasion' series, which I had the idea for while I was in Australia. My current pieces explore juxtapositions, with particular focus on ‘disturbing domesticity’. I use 'found' materials such as doilies and place mats, and I combine old embroideries with my own, using what I cali 'troubling' imagery to make the theme come alive.

Find out morę about Sarah at www.guerllla-embroidery.com or follow her on Twitter aG embroidery

CressStLtcken OK

JULY 2011 i ŚL.\J