Rosalind Wyatt

Embroiderer

©Heather Shuker

©MLRphoto

Text and textile

Rosalind studied calligraphy in Japan with the late master calligrapher Tanchu Terayama Sensei
She obtained a masters from the Royal College of Art, School of Fashion and Textiles
She never lets a piece out of the studio if she is not entirely satisfied with it

An eclectic and creative soul, Rosalind Wyatt is a visual artist and craftswoman who works with words. She studied calligraphy, the art of repetition, harmony and balance, and then textiles. Rosalind merged her two passions for calligraphy and textiles and she now “writes with a needle”, as she puts it. She has created her unique form of canvas, inspired by people and stories, letting her creativity and inner voice run free. She taught herself to copy by hand and eye the handwriting of other people, celebrating the flaws which make each style human. Most of Rosalind's work is commissioned from heritage brands and individuals who want their story shared. Delving into archives allows her time to discover the magical meaning between text and textile, making her work truly original.

Interview

©Heather Shuker

©MLRphoto

Do you master any specific techniques?: Handwriting is as unique as our DNA. When I stitch and copy, I work with a needle and thread of different colours, chosen from my collection of antique yarns and threads. Nothing is pre-printed, the whole process is intuitive, like drawing, and is a profound act of love for fellow humanity.
What was your experience in Japan?: The study of calligraphy is the quest for perfection, a world of introspection that teaches you how to look. My master was Tanchu Terayama and through gestures alone he guided me into the detail of a line, the emotional act of writing. I do not speak Japanese. It was enlightening.
What is your view on what well made means?: It has to be beautiful, but in a natural, organic way. Not ‘perfect’, yet complete. The story has to shine through the piece and have layers to it – the more layers it has, the more it becomes rich, interesting and classic.
Why do words mean so much to you?: As a form of expression, handwriting comes right after speaking. Words leave a mark and calligraphy refines this process. Our words are powerful, they tell us who we are and remain to testify a story, a living legacy for future generations. Through embroidery I want to create an even deeper connection and meaning.

Rosalind Wyatt is a master artisan: she began her career in 1998 and she started teaching in 1998