Hand Stitched ARt September 30, 2009

Riitta-Liisa is the winner of “The Anchor Award” for the most outstanding exhibit in the International Art of the Stitch biennial exhibition 2006, and more recently the Hand Embroidery Prize for the the most outstanding exhibit featuring hand embroidery at the “Riches of Stitches” exhibition by the Embroiderers’ Guild, UK in 2007. She qualified as a designer and has worked for most of her career as a fashion designer and lecturer in her native Finland. Her exquisite and unique artwork is a combination of intricate and colourful hand-stitching about which the American journalist and curator, Carol K. Russell, has written*: 'Her geometric and sculptural works are similarly spontaneous yet assured. Nothing seems willed here. It is as if each form or color reveals the next logical note in the music of her personal sphere. Present always though is the unmistakable equilibrium of a master conductor.'
During the four workshop days, Riitta-Liisa will guide participants through the process of producing a stitched artwork; how to get started, the various design methods, techniques and composition, and finally how to complete each piece in a professional way. Her daughter, Anna-Riitta Haavisto - a well-known mixed-media artist in her own right, and currently a board member of the Finnish Association of Textile Artists - will be assisting Riitta-Liisa for this workshop.
There will be a one-day break in the middle of this workshop to give participants an opportunity to relax and enjoy the various outings and countryside of this beautiful part of France; but also in order to give them some time to process what they have learned and to contemplate their design ideas.
www.embroidery.embroiderersguild.com/2002-3/vekkeli.htm

Official Website: http://www.lessoeursanglaises.com