Exploring the subtle narratives in clothing
Amelia Cross isn’t just interested in obvious style choices; she delves deep into the subtle cues embedded in our attire. Think of a curling nametag or a pen mark on a shirt. These tiny details speak volumes alongside polished collars and shoes. This dynamic of concealment and revelation intrigues the London-born artist, propelling her unique creations.
Cross’s journey started at the London College of Fashion, mastering bespoke tailoring, followed by a painting master’s at the Royal College of Art. The merging of these crafts led to her signature “sewn paintings.” She recalls, “I began with figureless clothing paintings on linen but felt a call to blend sewing with painting. The contrast of tangible sewing and painted illusions caught my attention.”
The art of “sewn paintings”
Using trompe-l’œil—a method that creates optical illusions—Cross crafts works that challenge perceptions. The intent? Make viewers question what elements are three-dimensional. She constructs her canvases like bodies, dressing them with pockets, buttons, and more.
Many of her insights come from analyzing people in the London Underground. “Rush hour often gives mere glimpses of attire. A pocket’s contents or quirky socks can build a whole character in your mind,” she explains.
In her solo exhibition, Discipline and Display at Nino Mier Gallery, Cross critiques dress codes and the subtle rules guiding fashion. Her works convey the hidden societal structures influencing our wardrobe choices.
For an exploration of artistic techniques that involve fabric and clothing, Markus Åkesson’s fabric-wrapped portraits provide a fascinating study of texture and illusion.
Secrets hidden in plain sight
Cross’s pieces often hide secrets, such as messages in collars or behind buttons. “I want viewers to inspect closely, revealing the details usually missed,” she says, urging engagement with her disembodied forms.
If you’re near New York, Discipline and Display runs until August 7. Discover more of Cross’s work on Instagram.
Dive into another tactile art form with dog embroidery art that also uses threads to craft charming narratives.
Source: thisiscolossal.com
Frequently asked questions
What is Amelia Cross known for creating?
Amelia Cross is known for creating ‘sewn paintings’ which merge sewing with painting and use trompe-l’œil to create optical illusions.
Where did Amelia Cross receive her education?
Amelia Cross studied bespoke tailoring at the London College of Fashion and later completed a master’s in painting at the Royal College of Art.
What influences Amelia Cross’s work?
Amelia Cross is influenced by the subtle narratives in clothing and draws insights from observing attire on people in the London Underground.