Alison Carpenter-Hughes - Free-Motion, Free Spirit Part 2 [NX076]

In this episode of NeedleXChange, I interview Alison Carpenter-Hughes.In part two of our conversation, Alison dives deeper into the emotional and symbolic aspects of her work. We discuss her connection to Leicester’s textile heritage, her ventures into community art, and how she plans to push the boundaries of her practice with bold colours, symbolism, and new materials. Plus, we get a glimpse into her personal world - her love of rock music, film favourites, and the books that inspire her creativity.Timestamps:00:00:00 - Introduction00:02:10 - The emotional impact of Alison’s work and historical research00:10:45 - Leicester’s textile heritage and community art projects00:22:30 - Exploring risk, experimentation, and storytelling in embroidery00:35:00 - The challenge of stitching on unconventional materials, including money00:45:40 - Moving beyond realism: symbolism, colour, and embracing her darker side00:56:20 - Music, film, and books that inspire Alison01:05:10 - What’s next? Big changes and new creative directionsLinks:Website: ajcgallery.comInstagram: pootlesmoonIntro 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/NeedleXChangeNewsIf you want embroidery inspiration and regular doses of textile art, visit the Mr X Stitch site here: https://www.mrxstitch.comIf you're looking for modern cross stitch designs, then XStitch is the magazine you need!Subscribe to XStitch Magazine here: https://xstitchmag.com/modern-cross-stitch-magazine/And follow Mr X Stitch on all the usual social media channels!Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MrXStitchTwitter: https://www.twitter.com/MrXStitchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/MrXStitchPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mrxstitch/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjamiechalmersRSSVERIFY Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.