Coded Stitch
2020 | Work Andi Walker · Photography Artist’s own
Coded Stitch draws from the rich heritage of textiles as vessels for encoded narratives, spanning cultures and centuries. Textiles, whether woven, knitted, or embroidered, have long been conduits for storytelling and self-expression. By adapting these timeless techniques onto slate, I bridge the past and present, infusing ancient practices with contemporary themes of identity and personal narrative.
Embroidery on slate/: a metaphor for marginalisation
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Materials:/ Recycled Roofing Slate & Mercerised Cotton
Each piece is a reflection of life, capturing pivotal moments that shape my journey. Through precise stitching onto slate, I create tangible records of significant events, where every stitch narrates a distinct story. Central to this process is the Bullion Stitch, characterised by its wrapped formation, symbolising the intricate layers of experience inherent in each event.
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Embedded within the intricate patterns lies deliberate symbolism, such as the reversal of stitches or intentional stitch counts. these acts serve as poignant metaphors for the experiences they represent, including marginalisation due to sexuality and gender identity. For instance, the reversal of a stitch isn't just symbolic; it's a tangible representation of the struggle against societal norms and the profound impact of being “othered”. Through this literal reversal, viewers are compelled to confront the complexities of identity and the tension between visibility and concealment.
Through the medium of embroidery on slate, I invite viewers to engage with my narrative, reflect on their own experiences, and find their own meaning within the work. Coded Stitch transcends being just a record of moments in my life - it becomes a universal language that speaks to viewers on a personal level.
