SEE IT: Pricked/Extreme Embroidery

The Museum of Arts and Design is running a fantastic exhibit, Pricked: Extreme Embroidery until April 27th, 2008. If you are in NYC during this time, you should check it out. I wish they had featured some additional pieces on their site (don't think it's a good range of the vast work they have on display) and if I was allowed to photograph I would have posted, but alas you cannot. They are all interesting- you will be surprised by the intricate detail, and their charm and wit. They do a good job of bringing embroidery mainstream while not abandoning the craft and artistry. It's hard to pick a favorite since I liked them all, but if I had to... the one I remember most is by a Japanese artist who instead of using paints - used a needle and thread as her brush as she embroidered freehand different portraits on a fine fine mesh. If you took a step back you would think she sketched them out. Amazing!