Henrietta Cheshire is a Sydney-based textile artist working on Gayamaygal land on the Northern Beaches. Her practice explores how textiles can hold memory and history, particularly the overlooked stories of women’s labour and domestic life. 

Her practice weaves together art, heritage and craft to make visible the quiet strength of women’s work.

We were delighted to partner with Atelier Broderie to offer hand-embroidered personalisation to our treasure linen pieces.

Enjoy our interview with Henrietta

Where do you source your creative inspiration?

Oh, I am inspired by so many things, it’s hard to pin down just a few! Inspiration can come from the most random sources. I am currently one of four artist residents at Vaucluse House, and I am loving being on the estate. The sounds, smells, foliage, buildings, and the people who visit and work at the house are providing incredible inspiration. The history of the area is also really informing my work.

My work has traditionally focused on the hidden stories of women, and Vaucluse House has much to reveal. 

Colour-wise, I always look to nature, especially flowers, to inform good colour flow. The riot of colour in a garden bed of dahlias, tonal changes in a piece of sandstone, the variations of green within one leaf.

How would you describe the emotions and storytelling that embroidered pieces can carry

Embroidery carries deep emotions. Embroidery is slow and time consuming meaning that the maker stays present with the work for long periods of time which creates a unique connection between the maker and the work. That piece can then be handed down through generations. I do bespoke work for weddings, a day full of joy and remembrance and the pieces I do whether it be personalising a second hand wedding dress or embroidering and repairing a veil all become part of the couple's story.

What is your most treasured embroidered piece in your personal collection?

My most treasured embroidered piece is a crewelwork embroidered cushion that was started by my grandmother, worked on by my mother, and completed by me. It features stylised flowers in a traditional crewelwork style.

I love this work so much; I was very close to and adored my grandmother. Working on this piece that she started made me feel closer to her after she was gone.  It also inspired me to make my stitches as perfect and neat as hers, not a bad way to learn.

www.henriettacheshire.com