Nicki Jarvis

About

Nicki Jarvis @ The Embassy

Nicki creates stitched textiles that combine painting and printing with patchwork and embroidery. The patchwork quilt has been a reference point for many years and this body of work uses traditional techniques but aims to tell new stories.

Batch production is an integral part of this work, starting with mark-making in layers across pieces of calico or making screenprinted repeats. The rhythms of this creativity are disrupted by cutting and reassembling materials so that images are fragmented and changed by the process. In this way the pieces reference traditional patchwork, which re-used patterned fabrics for decorative effect. Real silk is embroidered over Nicki’s patchwork surfaces to create movement and another pattern layer.

These small pieces are intended to bring a kaleidescope of colour into dull days. Nicki describes them as energetic doodles, which use a series of motifs she has distilled from buildings and landscapes over time.

Each piece is displayed in a bespoke box frame.