Robert John Hodge - Renaissance 2.0 [NX124]

In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Robert John Hodge.Robert John Hodge makes cross-stitch work based on Renaissance sculptures, using a CMYK / screenprint-style layering approach and recurring Wingdings symbols.We talk about being a finalist in the Hand & Lock Embroidery Prize, how the work is technically constructed, and the bigger ideas underneath it: art vs craft, nostalgia, digital “glitch” language, and how slow, tactile making can transform images that started life as fast and disposable.Timestamps:00:00:00 - Introduction00:01:10 – Hand & Lock finalist story + mentor + family cheer squad00:03:56 – Renaissance sculpture → CMYK layers → Wingdings glitch00:06:30 – Time-saving stitching: let the fabric do some work00:09:27 – Hobby → medium (London limits shaping the practice)00:11:58 – Art vs craft: embroidery as the point, not the punchline00:14:36 – 90s Windows nostalgia: Wingdings, WordArt energy00:17:19 – Making patterns: first self-draft + tools/workflow00:20:01 – Scale, time, and the realities of big stitch work00:26:30 – Inputs and influences feeding the work00:30:28 – Process evolution: designing for a “digital” feel00:36:40 – New “collage” series: smaller, quicker stitched mashupsLinks:Website: robertjohnhodge.comInstagram: robertjohnhodgeIntro music is Cotton Candy by Cospe via Epidemic Sound.About NeedleXChangeAn artist interview podcast exploring contemporary embroidery and textile art. Hosted by Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers.Support on PatreonJoin the Green Room for weekly aftershows, monthly Q&As, and searchable transcripts. Become an Executive Producer to join quarterly roundtables and shape the show's future.patreon.com/c/xstitch/membershipStay Connectedneedl.exchange | Newsletter: bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNewsmrxstitch.com | xstitchmag.comSocial: Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | YouTube | LinkedIn