Often, when one thinks about embroidery, the visual cue of fabric comes to mind. When
embroidery is depicted on other less-common mediums, such as paper, the perspective
of possibilities is immediately altered. Embroidering over a photograph is even more
uncommon, and yet, while consistently working in the fashion industry, Wilson learned
that this combination comes together harmoniously. From this, Wilson further explored
other elements of fashion and photography, melding the two together by creating a digital
rendering of his personal photographs.
As part of his Luxury fine art series, Wilson decided to direct a model photo shoot, then
embroider the photographs. He digitized elements like hair, eyelashes and clothing using
abstract and free motion stitches to emphasize various aspects of the images. Lastly,
embroidered clothing, 3D embroidery and typography are also added to the pieces. He
refers to the process as a learning experience for embroidering on paper, through which
he developed a methodology to teach others to do the same. After the model photo shoot,
Wilson applied the same techniques to wildlife, landscape and still life photography.
This series will include a set of 20 photographs, a mixture of woodland shots from Wilson’s
home base in Charlotte and florals that were photographed in his studio. Each image will
come as a PDF file that can be found on the companion USB. Both the floral photography
and the woodland shots will offer two size options and can be used in conjunction with either
wool or standard embroidery thread—though Wilson has noted his personal preference has
consistently been for the more textured and dramatic wool threads. The finished embroidered
pieces promise to be an exhilarating exploration of texture and color.
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