Minia Banet Fraga

Variopinto

Embroiderer

©Minia Banet Fraga

©Irene Serrat

©Minia Banet Fraga

Photo embroidery

Minia transfers images to textiles
Cinema, photography and botany inspire her
She hosts workshops in different towns and cities of Galicia

Trained as a technician in artistic photography, Minia Banet Fraga has devoted herself to embroidery using her photographs since 2015. With needles, cotton fabrics, threads, felted wool and wooden hoops, she creates pieces and accessories with a keen sense of visual aesthetics and design. Although she is self taught, she has taken courses in embroidery, punch needle and needle felting with Gimena Romero and Loly Girardi. She started making crochet patterns and taking commissions in parallel to her work as a photographer until 2017, when she became self-employed and launched her online shop, Variopinto. At first, she worked in any corner of her flat, but in 2018 she renovated it and now has a workshop at home. “It's very satisfying to work for yourself and enjoy the process” Minia says.

Interview

©Minia Banet Fraga

©Irene Serrat

Do you remember when you first took up embroidery?: I have loved embroidery and crochet since I was a child, but it wasn't until seven years ago, while working as a photographer, that I got completely hooked and started making my first pieces in parallel to my photographic work.
Why did you choose this craft?: I started embroidery for fun because I wanted to disconnect from screens, as I was working a lot on the computer doing photography work. I did not plan to dedicate myself to embroidery full time, but when commissions, collaborations and different projects came up, I decided to take them on. Little by little, I built up Variopinto.
In what way is your work linked to the territory where you live?: In Galicia, as in many places, this profession has a long tradition. However, I think my work is unique. I rescue and preserve the old techniques, but I try to modernise them to give embroidery a more contemporary look. My embroidery is a perfect blend of tradition and innovation.
Could your craft be in danger of disappearing?: A few years ago, I could say yes. But, in recent times, craftsmanship is being increasingly valued. Most of the people who come to my workshops keep embroidering. Some have even created their own projects. So, I do not think it is in danger but on the rise.

Minia Banet Fraga is a rising star: she began her career in 2017 and she started teaching in 2019