Mar 09 2025 30 mins 3
In this episode of NeedleXChange, I interview Vanessa Marr, an artist, researcher, and lecturer whose work explores the invisible labour of women through textiles.
In this half of our conversation, we dive into the challenges people face when learning embroidery, including how gender and past experiences shape their confidence with stitching. We explore how embroidery can be a tool for storytelling and activism, and Vanessa shares insights from her PhD research on the connection between textiles and invisible domestic labour. We also discuss the ongoing impact of the Domestic Dusters project, from international collaborations to the need for an official archive. If you haven’t listened to part one yet, be sure to check that out first!
Timestamps:
00:00:00 - Intro
00:01:30 - Teaching Techniques in Embroidery
00:02:46 - Exploring the Red Thread Philosophy
00:04:16 - Creative Uses of Everyday Materials
00:05:43 - Exhibiting Duster Art
00:07:44 - Community Engagement and Collaboration
00:10:03 - Documenting the Duster Journey
00:13:22 - Future Directions and Academic Pursuits
00:15:44 - Theoretical Framework of the PhD
00:21:21 - Personal Reflections on the Project
00:25:10 - Cultural Influences and Inspirations
Links:
Website: domesticdusters.wordpress.com
Instagram: vanemarr
Intro music is The Juggler by Ch@ntarelle 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/NeedleXChangeNews
If you want embroidery inspiration and regular doses of textile art, visit the Mr X Stitch site here: https://www.mrxstitch.com
If you're looking for modern cross stitch designs, then XStitch is the magazine you need!
And follow Mr X Stitch on all the usual social media channels!
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MrXStitch
- Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/MrXStitch
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/MrXStitch
- Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mrxstitch/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjamiechalmers
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
