The Subversive Stitch

This insightful work reexamines women's relationship with embroidery, exploring its impact on art history and contemporary craft movements. The Subversive Stitch is a must-read.

Rozsika Parker's The Subversive Stitch offers a profound examination of the intricate relationship between women and the art of embroidery. By bringing stitchery out of the domestic sphere and into the realm of fine arts, Parker has made significant strides in art history and criticism. This work has not only highlighted the importance of embroidery as a form of artistic expression but has also contributed to the growth of contemporary crafts movements. The book is a vital resource for understanding how women's work has historically been marginalized.

In this newly reissued edition of The Subversive Stitch, Parker includes a fresh introduction that connects her insights to the contemporary art scene, discussing the stitched works of renowned artists like Louise Bourgeois and Tracey Emin. Additionally, she highlights the contributions of emerging embroiderers, both female and male, who are redefining the craft today. Parker's meticulous research draws from a variety of sources, including household accounts, women's magazines, letters, and novels, to illustrate the historical separation of embroidery from fine arts and its implications for women's creative expression.

The book also delves into the dual nature of women's experiences with embroidery. While it has often been associated with female subservience, it simultaneously serves as a source of joy and creativity, fostering connections among women. Beautifully illustrated, The Subversive Stitch is not just an art history text; it is a celebration of the resilience and creativity of women throughout history.