Meeting Niamh gave me the opportunity to explore a craft that demands an incredible amount of patience, precision and attention to detail. Embroidery is often admired for the finished artwork, yet each piece is built one stitch at a time, with hours of careful planning and handwork hidden beneath the surface.
During the shoot, I wanted to document more than just the completed embroidery. By photographing Niamh's hands, threads, needles and workspace, I aimed to reveal the repetitive, meditative process that transforms simple materials into beautifully detailed textile art. Every stitch contributes to a much larger story, making the process just as important as the final piece.
As part of Made By Hand: An Insight Into The Hidden Paths Across Our Palms, this series highlights another form of invisible labour. Embroidery is often perceived as delicate and decorative, but behind every finished piece are countless individual decisions, movements and hours of craftsmanship. Through these photographs, I wanted to celebrate the dedication, creativity and skill that exist within every stitch.
Niamh Wimperis
Founder of Wimperis Embroidery
Founder of Wimperis Embroidery
Contemporary embroidery artist, educator and creator of modern embroidery kits inspired by nature, storytelling and botanical design.
Website
https://wimperis.co.uk/
https://wimperis.co.uk/