Bren Ahearn - Needlework as Witness Part 2 [NX091]

In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Bren Ahearn.Bren Ahearn is a needlework artist using traditional samplers to unpack masculinity, memory and social conditioning. In the second half of my conversation with Bren Ahearn, we delve into the politics of craft, the evolution of his large-scale samplers, and the emotional realities behind making art that speaks to violence, identity and grief. If you were fascinated by my conversation with Kate Kretz in which we explore ways in which needlework makes a political point - episodes 41 and 42 - you won’t want to miss this!Timestamps: 00:00:12 - Intro00:01:30 – Navigating Identity and Masculinity00:12:23 – The Role of Kindness in Art and Life00:22:33 – The Evolution of Craft and Queer Identity00:27:17 – Reflections on School Experiences and Identity00:30:49 – Musical Influences and Cultural Contexts00:34:28 – Literary Inspirations and Alienation00:38:51 – Unexpected Life Experiences and Future AspirationsLinks:Website: brenahearn.comInstagram: brenahearnIntro music is Hipsters are Okay by Daniel Fridell 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.