Stitch-illo

Encyclopedia of Inspiration #2

by Janine Vangool

Traditional embroidery and textile arts are enjoying a renaissance as we rediscover stitching techniques once popular during our grandmothers’ times. Embroidery, needlework, appliqué and quilting are au courant in illustration, fine art and craft.

Stitch•illo highlights the many sides of this resurgence: the textural, labour-intensive works of textile artists who tell stories through their work; illustrators who eschew digital tools and are turning to needle, thread and fabric as a means to communicate; and creative entrepreneurs employing stitching and needlework to build fulfilling businesses. Through techniques that emerge from the domestic arts, women are reclaiming stitching as a medium that goes beyond decoration or simple function. The needle is likened to a pencil or paint brush; thread, yarn and fibre is the paint.

The artists profiled within Stitch•illo honour their own histories and cultures while layering upon them. Wielding simple needle and thread, they stitch powerful messages. They push boundaries, both of what society expects of women’s art, and what the artists expect of themselves. They illustrate the world around them—or conjure new ones from deep within their imagination. They create beauty and find peace. They tell deeply personal stories, and in the process share universal ones of connection and feeling.

Genres: Art

352 pages, Paperback

First published May 1, 2017

About the author

Janine Vangool is the publisher, editor and designer of UPPERCASE, a quarterly print magazine for the creative and curious. UPPERCASE publishes content inspired by design, typography, illustration and craft. Her magazine and books celebrate the process of making, the commitment to craft and the art of living creatively. Janine got her start working as a freelance graphic designer for arts and culture clients and has also taught typography and publication design at the college level. She has been a shop owner and bookseller, gallery curator, sold a line of greeting cards wholesale, made 10,000 books by hand (with lots of help!) and has sewn her own products for retail. She has a particular fondness for typewriters, a passion inspired a book about their graphic history. She has designed two fabric collections with Windham Fabrics. She is often asked, “Do you ever sleep?” To which she replies, “Yes! By the end of the day I’m exhausted!” She lives in Calgary, Canada with her boardgame-designing husband and curious son.

-Source https://creativemornings.com/talks/ja...

Reviews

[Lilia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I own very rare books but I own the entire series of THE UPPERCASE ENCYCLOPEDIA OF INSPIRATION (I even preordered the 4 last books of the series) because :
1/ I want to support this small Canadian publishing company
2/ They are fully supported by subscriptions only (for their Uppercase Magazine) and book sales
3/ They promote creative artists from all over the world from all fields and media
4/ The encyclopedia books are absolutely stunning. Gorgeous pictures and valuable text contents
Buying their books is a great way to help promote art, the artists and cultures overall.

[Hannah Jane · Rating 4 out of 5]

Is it ok to say I love this book because of how pretty it is? Before reading this, I hadn't heard of most of the textile artists and I was delighted and inspired by their different styles, stories, approaches, and techniques. Though most of their websites are easy to find I am keeping my copy of the book so I can leisurely flip through the pages anytime I'm feeling totally stumped and creatively drained.

[Judy Merrill-Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a compilation of stitch artist profiles. Lots of inspiration and great photos. Outstanding for folks interested in contemporary fiber art.

[Elsabe Retief · Rating 5 out of 5]

In my opinion the most beautiful of the compendium or encyclopedia series by the brilliant Janine van Gool! The size of these books are just right, the multiple covers makes me feel rich, spoiled and over the top. The content and the stories inspire no end. I do adore the people in the ray of sunshine that Janine cast their special powers!
This aptly named Stitch-illo permits us to speak loud and proud again with our sewing!

[Casey Cogburn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m sorry if you don’t have this inspiring book in your library 📚 if you love creatives and beautiful photos and people I think you would love 💕

[Ann · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fun and inspiring book for stitch artists with great illustrations and I love the focus on the stories behind the artists in their inspiration . Eye candy for artists.