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49. Marcia Bennett Male - History & Her Story [NX049]
51:16In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Marcia Bennett Male.Marcia is a textile artist and stone mason, whose stitched works explore her personal experiences as a black woman living in modern Britain, and focus on black historical figures. Marcia's work uses simplistic form and hidden meaning to address topics that are deeply personal, whether it's her own mental wellbeing or the cultural context of black identity. In this first part of our NeedleXChange we talk about her forthcoming show in Brixton, how Marcia's textile work came to be and how she uses symbolism in her work,If you enjoy the show, please share it with someone else that you think will like it.Timestamps: 00:00:00 - Intro00:03:10 - Marcia's forthcoming show at the Brixton Library in October 202400:05:25 - Exploring Themes of Mental Health and Women's History00:31:33 - Embracing Identity and Finding Peace as an Artist00:35:29 - From Painting to Textile Art00:38:23 - Exploring Identity and Society00:40:30 - Incorporating Heritage00:42:25 - Simplifying and Distorting00:49:01 - The Background and SymbolismLinks:Website: mbennettmale.co.ukInstagram: marciabennettmaletextileIntro music is Search Friendly by Chris Shards via Epidemic Sound.About NeedleXChange:NeedleXChange is a conversation podcast with embroidery and textile artists, exploring their process and practice.Hosted by Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers, it is an in-depth showcase of the best needlework artists on the planet.Visit the NeedleXChange website: https://www.needl.exchange/Sign up for the NeedleXChange Newsletter here: https://bit.ly/NeedleXChangeIf you want embroidery inspiration and regular doses of textile art, visit the Mr X Stitch site here: https://www.mrxstitch.comIf you're looking for modern cross stitch designs, then XStitch is the magazine you need!Subscribe to XStitch Magazine here: https://xstitchmag.com/modern-cross-stitch-magazine/And follow Mr X Stitch on all the usual social media channels!Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MrXStitchTwitter: https://www.twitter.com/MrXStitchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/MrXStitchPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mrxstitch/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjamiechalmers
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48. Aaron Fein - Catching The Light Part 2 [NX048]
45:40In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Aaron Fein.Aaron Fein is a mixed media sculptor whose work plays with perceptions, both luminant and psychosocial. This is the second part of our NeedleXChange in which we discuss how Aaron's work has evolved since the White Flags project, how he began dying fabrics and threads, we nerd out about scaffolding for a bit and we explore Aaron's cultural touchpoints.If you enjoy the show, please share it with anyone you know with a sewing machine - it might just broaden their horizons!Timestamps: 00:00:00 - Intro00:02:05 - Exploring the Possibilities of Embroidery00:07:58 - Exploring Colour and Geometry00:12:39 - Embracing Freeform Creativity00:15:37 - Finding Purpose and Inspiration00:23:29 - The Interplay of Opposites00:29:42 - The Influence of Tai ChiLinks:Website: aaronfein.comInstagram: aaronfein_artistIntro music is Silly Simon by TAGE via Epidemic Sound.About NeedleXChange:NeedleXChange is a conversation podcast with embroidery and textile artists, exploring their process and practice.Hosted by Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers, it is an in-depth showcase of the best needlework artists on the planet.Visit the NeedleXChange website: https://www.needl.exchange/Sign up for the NeedleXChange Newsletter here: https://bit.ly/NeedleXChangeIf you want embroidery inspiration and regular doses of textile art, visit the Mr X Stitch site here: https://www.mrxstitch.comIf you're looking for modern cross stitch designs, then XStitch is the magazine you need!Subscribe to XStitch Magazine here: https://xstitchmag.com/modern-cross-stitch-magazine/And follow Mr X Stitch on all the usual social media channels!Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MrXStitchTwitter: https://www.twitter.com/MrXStitchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/MrXStitchPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mrxstitch/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjamiechalmers
47. Aaron Fein - Catching The Light [NX047]
34:32In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Aaron Fein.Aaron Fein is a mixed media sculptor whose work plays with perceptions, both luminant and psychosocial. Inspired by the fading colours of American flags after 9/11, Fein embarked on a project to create white flags that represented grief and unity. He initially experimented with bleaching and sewing, but eventually discovered the power of machine embroidery. Over the course of several years, he created 193 white flags, each representing a different country. The project became a therapeutic process for Fein and allowed him to explore the possibilities of embroidery as an art form. He later expanded his work to include intricate geometric designs and installations. Timestamps: 00:00:12 - Intro00:02:22 - Aaron's Background00:04:32 - Creating the White Flags00:09:23 - Discovering Machine Embroidery00:16:22 - The Evolution of his Art00:22:52 - Taking Art out into the Public Realm00:31:22 - The Therapeutic Process of MakingLinks:Website: aaronfein.comInstagram: aaronfein_artistIntro music is Silly Simon by TAGE via Epidemic Sound.About NeedleXChange:NeedleXChange is a conversation podcast with embroidery and textile artists, exploring their process and practice.Hosted by Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers, it is an in-depth showcase of the best needlework artists on the planet.Visit the NeedleXChange website: https://www.needl.exchange/Sign up for the NeedleXChange Newsletter here: https://bit.ly/NeedleXChangeIf you want embroidery inspiration and regular doses of textile art, visit the Mr X Stitch site here: https://www.mrxstitch.comIf you're looking for modern cross stitch designs, then XStitch is the magazine you need!Subscribe to XStitch Magazine here: https://xstitchmag.com/modern-cross-stitch-magazine/And follow Mr X Stitch on all the usual social media channels!Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MrXStitchTwitter: https://www.twitter.com/MrXStitchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/MrXStitchPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mrxstitch/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjamiechalmers
46. Danielle Clough - Making a Racket Part 2 [NX046]
39:41In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Danielle Clough, aka Fiancé Knowles.Danielle is an South African artist known for her vibrant and expressive embroidery work, characterised by bold colours, movement, and layering, creating a visual impact that evokes joy. She believes in the inherent goodness of people and the power of support and validation in fostering self-confidence.This is the second part of our NeedleXChange and we explore Danielle's colour theory, discuss some of her other projects and meander through her cultural touchpoints. It's such a pleasure talking with Danielle and I hope you enjoy it!Timestamps: 0:00:00 - Introduction0:01:52 - Unleashing Your Colour Language0:07:57 - The Evolution of Colour Preferences0:12:28 - The Power of Personal Colour Preference0:15:52 - The Coda Collective and Collaborative Projects0:18:41 - Procrastination and the Temptation of Commercial Projects0:18:41 - Working with Friends and Building a Platform0:31:18 - An interesting fact no one knows about Danielle CloughLinks:Website: danielleclough.comInstagram: fiance_knowlesIntro music is Rich People Dreaming by Siine & Superintendent McCupcakes via Epidemic Sound.About NeedleXChange:NeedleXChange is a conversation podcast with embroidery and textile artists, exploring their process and practice.Hosted by Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers, it is an in-depth showcase of the best needlework artists on the planet.Visit the NeedleXChange website: https://www.needl.exchange/Sign up for the NeedleXChange Newsletter here: https://bit.ly/NeedleXChangeIf you want embroidery inspiration and regular doses of textile art, visit the Mr X Stitch site here: https://www.mrxstitch.comIf you're looking for modern cross stitch designs, then XStitch is the magazine you need!Subscribe to XStitch Magazine here: https://xstitchmag.com/modern-cross-stitch-magazine/And follow Mr X Stitch on all the usual social media channels!Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MrXStitchTwitter: https://www.twitter.com/MrXStitchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/MrXStitchPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mrxstitch/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjamiechalmers
45. Danielle Clough - Making a Racket [NX045]
50:36In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Danielle Clough, aka Fiancé Knowles.Danielle is an South African artist known for her vibrant and expressive embroidery work, characterised by bold colours, movement, and layering, creating a visual impact that evokes joy. She believes in the inherent goodness of people and the power of support and validation in fostering self-confidence.This is the first part of our NeedleXChange and we discuss how Danielle became a stitcher, how she became a viral sensation and what it takes to be a commercial artist, among other things. Danielle is awesome and this is a great chat - you'll love it!Timestamps: 0:01:52 Introduction and Seasonal Conversation00:10:58 Discovering Cape Town and Embracing Nature00:13:53 The Beginnings of Danielle's Embroidery Journey00:24:59 From Fashion Design to Thread Sketching00:27:52 The Humble Origins of Danielle's Embroidery00:29:30 Fashion vs. Freedom of Creativity00:36:58 Aligning Brand Ethos with Personal Values00:45:40 Balancing Commercial Work and Personal Artistic PursuitsLinks:Website: danielleclough.comInstagram: fiance_knowlesIntro music is Rich People Dreaming by Siine & Superintendent McCupcakes via Epidemic Sound.About NeedleXChange:NeedleXChange is a conversation podcast with embroidery and textile artists, exploring their process and practice.Hosted by Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers, it is an in-depth showcase of the best needlework artists on the planet.Visit the NeedleXChange website: https://www.needl.exchange/Sign up for the NeedleXChange Newsletter here: https://bit.ly/NeedleXChangeIf you want embroidery inspiration and regular doses of textile art, visit the Mr X Stitch site here: https://www.mrxstitch.comIf you're looking for modern cross stitch designs, then XStitch is the magazine you need!Subscribe to XStitch Magazine here: https://xstitchmag.com/modern-cross-stitch-magazine/And follow Mr X Stitch on all the usual social media channels!Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MrXStitchTwitter: https://www.twitter.com/MrXStitchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/MrXStitchPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mrxstitch/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjamiechalmers
44. Liz Kueneke - Urban Fabrication Part 2 [NX044]
37:57In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Liz Kueneke.Liz Kueneke is an Ibizan-based artist whose community created maps plot personal paths through urban environments.This is the second part of our NeedleXChange in which we discover how Liz came to needlework, how the Urban Fabric concept came to be, Liz's relationship with Ibiza and we cover the usual Favourite questions. Finally, as is the way of these interviews, we learn another fascinating aspect of Liz's creative expression.Be sure to listen to NX043 for the first part of our chat, to find out more about Urban Fabric.Timestamps: 00:00:00 - Intro00:01:44 - Early Influences and Rediscovering Stitching00:08:24 - Choosing Spain as a Creative Hub00:15:26 - Mapping Ibiza and Using Natural Materials00:22:19 - Incorporating Artistic Swimming as a ToolLinks:Website: lizkueneke.comInstagram: lizkueneke + the_urban_fabricIntro music is Tomame Con Razon by Son Habana via Epidemic Sound.About NeedleXChange:NeedleXChange is a conversation podcast with embroidery and textile artists, exploring their process and practice.Hosted by Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers, it is an in-depth showcase of the best needlework artists on the planet.Visit the NeedleXChange website: https://www.needl.exchange/Sign up for the NeedleXChange Newsletter here: https://bit.ly/NeedleXChangeIf you want embroidery inspiration and regular doses of textile art, visit the Mr X Stitch site here: https://www.mrxstitch.comIf you're looking for modern cross stitch designs, then XStitch is the magazine you need!Subscribe to XStitch Magazine here: https://xstitchmag.com/modern-cross-stitch-magazine/And follow Mr X Stitch on all the usual social media channels!Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MrXStitchTwitter: https://www.twitter.com/MrXStitchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/MrXStitchPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mrxstitch/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjamiechalmers
43. Liz Kueneke - Urban Fabrication [NX043]
32:58In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Liz Kueneke.Liz Kueneke is an Ibizan-based artist whose community created maps plot personal paths through urban environments.Her Urban Fabric project involves embroidering maps of different cities and inviting communities to weave their own narratives into the maps. The project aims to change people's perceptions of place and foster a sense of connection to their surroundings. Liz has conducted these participatory mapping projects in various cities around the world, including Barcelona, Manhattan, Bangalore and Morocco. Liz's work is influenced by the concept of psychogeography, which explores different ways of experiencing and understanding our environment.Timestamps: 00:00:00 - Intro00:02:42 - Introduction and Background00:09:44 - Different Attitudes and Responses to the Project00:17:46 - Preserving and Sharing the MapsLinks:Website: lizkueneke.comInstagram: lizkueneke + the_urban_fabricIntro music is Tomame Con Razon by Son Habana via Epidemic Sound.About NeedleXChange:NeedleXChange is a conversation podcast with embroidery and textile artists, exploring their process and practice.Hosted by Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers, it is an in-depth showcase of the best needlework artists on the planet.Visit the NeedleXChange website: https://www.needl.exchange/Sign up for the NeedleXChange Newsletter here: https://bit.ly/NeedleXChangeIf you want embroidery inspiration and regular doses of textile art, visit the Mr X Stitch site here: https://www.mrxstitch.comIf you're looking for modern cross stitch designs, then XStitch is the magazine you need!Subscribe to XStitch Magazine here: https://xstitchmag.com/modern-cross-stitch-magazine/And follow Mr X Stitch on all the usual social media channels!Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MrXStitchTwitter: https://www.twitter.com/MrXStitchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/MrXStitchPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mrxstitch/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjamiechalmers