Mailbox 07: Rowena Larsen Nasturims II Blackwork & Surface Stitching
The idea for this piece popped into my head one night – why not try combining two embroidery techniques that totally contrasted with each other? decided to use black and white for the background and full color for the center. The image is based on a photo I took.
I have done some traditional embroidery but my main love is playing with colour, textures, and the natural world.
Rowena has been doing embroidery for many years, starting as soon as she could hold a needle when she was about five years old. Even then she wanted to do her own thing and not follow someone else’s decisions or instructions.
She attended many embroidery classes with local and overseas tutors. In the 90’s, she passed several NZ Embroidery Certificates and also holds a London City & Guilds certificate in embroidery. In 2016, she moved from Ōtepoti Dunedin to Waihōpai Invercargill and joined the Southland Embroiderers’ Guild.
The Southland Embroiderers’ Guild is showcasing members’ work in the exhibition “In the Eye of the Needle” at Whare Taupua Community Arts Space from August 3 to 31.
The exhibition explores the nuanced art of embroidery, presenting works that range from meticulous traditional handwork to avant-garde contemporary designs. Each piece reflects the artist’s vision, skill, and dedication, offering a close-up and at times personalised exploration of the evolving art of embroidery.
