Lesley Wheeler - Textilia Arcana [NX108]

In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Lesley Wheeler. Lesley is a poet, quilter, and textile artist who brings tarot symbolism to life through fabric and thread.In this first half of our conversation we explore how she approaches tarot as both a meditative tool and a form of visual storytelling, her PhD in confessional poetry, and the ways writing and textiles draw from the same creative well. Lesley shares how quilting became a sustaining practice during lockdown, the historical tarot decks that inspire her, and her ideas about liminality, accessibility, and making art that exists beyond traditional institutions.Timestamps:00:00:00 - Introduction00:01:30 – Exploring Tarot: A Tool for Understanding00:04:15 – The Intersection of Poetry and Textiles00:07:06 – The Journey into Quilt Making00:09:48 – The Role of Art in Communication00:12:44 – The Creative Process Behind Tarot Cards00:15:37 – The Influence of Historical Art on Modern Creations00:18:17 – The Balance of Art and Functionality00:20:52 – The Personal Connection to Art and Poetry00:23:55 – The Evolution of Craft and Artistic Expression00:34:03 – Embracing Creativity and Trusting OneselfLinks:Website: lannwheeler.comInstagram: major_arcana_textilesIntro music is Summer of Love by Roy Edwin Williams 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.exchangeSign up for the NeedleXChange Newsletter here: https://bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNewsAnd follow Mr X Stitch on all the usual social media channels!Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mrxstitchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mrxstitchPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mrxstitchLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjamiechalmers