NeedleStitcheStories is an exploration of the potential to create a renewed interest in hand embroidery as a means of creative expression. It involved a series of hand embroidery workshops conducted with over 35 participants. The resulting art work is a hand embroidered collage of the stories and conversations the participants engaged in during the workshops. It also records the emotions and the experiences of the participants at that moment.

The work: Wings of Freedom is a made using Aari embroidery with design motifs are inspired from the peacock motifs, traditionally woven on Kancheevaram silk sarees. The Butterfly symbolises freedom, the Dragon represents magnificence, and the Phoenix the ability to rise from one’s own ashes. The embroidery is done using metallic threads, metal sequins and beads.