Narrative Embroideries

By Gopika Nath

Artist in Me series

Embroidery is more than just decoration—it is a language, a way of storytelling, a connection to memory and tradition. Inspired by the narratives woven by the renowned painter Ghulam Mohamed Sheikh into his paintings, textile artist Gopika Nath along with Kiran Nadar Museum of Art (KNMA) brings to you, Narrative Embroideries - a special workshop series exploring the expressive potential of stitch.

Join us as we transform fabric into a canvas for personal stories, reinterpret traditional embroidery techniques and experiment with texture, color, and composition to develop our own unique stories. 

Module 1: Running Stitches

1st March

The first module in this series, "Running Stitches," is inspired by the foundational stitch of Kantha embroidery. Traditionally used to repurpose old sarees and dhotis, Kantha was stitched using threads drawn from the fabric itself, layering worn textiles into rich, embroidered tapestries. Originally stitched in simple black and red on white, this form of embroidery has evolved to incorporate a wide variety of stitches and colors. 

Module 2: Loops and Layers

8th March

We will explore the rich heritage of Crewel embroidery, a technique that traveled along the Silk Road to Kashmir, where it flourished under Mughal patronage. Traditionally worked with wool using an Ari (awl), Crewel embroidery is known for its bold floral motifs, flowing vines, and intricate layers of texture.

Module 3: Reflections on Stitch

22nd March

We will delve into the delicate artistry of Chamba Rumals, a textile tradition deeply rooted in the Pahari miniature painting style. These exquisitely embroidered textiles were once created by women in royal households, gifted during weddings, and offered as tokens of devotion.

At the heart of Chamba Rumals lies the dorukha (double-sided) embroidery technique, where a single stitch mirrors itself on both sides of the fabric, creating a seamless and intricate narrative. Inspired by themes from mythology, folklore, and everyday life, these embroidered pieces tell vivid stories through their fine details and fluid compositions.

Audience take aways:

- Learn to tell stories through embroidery using traditional and contemporary techniques. 

- Discover the history and cultural significance of Kantha, Crewel, and Chamba Rumal embroidery. 

- Practice running stitches, layered textures, and double-sided dorukha embroidery. 

- Design and create your own embroidered artwork inspired by these rich traditions. 

- Experiment with color, texture, and composition to bring depth to your stitches. 

- Experience embroidery as a meditative and mindful artistic practice. 

- Receive expert guidance from textile artist Gopika Nath. 

Whether you are drawn to textile traditions, personal storytelling, or meditative handwork, these sessions will provide the tools and inspiration to paint with a needle. 

Artist Bio

Gopika Nath is a textile artist-craftsman who stitches and writes, threading her syllables into poetry, creative non-fiction and art reviews. She began her career as textile designer providing designs for industry gradually progressing to creating art made for wear. She has also worked with the Ministry of Textiles on craft projects in India. For the last 3 decades Gopika has been pursuing her passion as a textile artist, where her art practice provides a mirror to the self.