A Stitch in Time

On returning to the Midlands I was eager to visit the Ikon gallery in Birmingham, one of my favourite contemporary art galleries tucked away in the city centre and complete with its own little tower.

Currently showing the exhibition This Could Happen To You, a programme detailing the history of the gallery's artistic programme during the 70's, one piece entitled 'A Stitch in Time' is a recreation of the original piece by David Medalla, which was created 1968-72.
During this time large cloths were distributed in public spaces, to which viewers were encouraged to sew small significant objects and trinkets. The concept was part of a series of 'participation pieces' by Medalla, who wanted to increase accessibility to art by challenging the creative hierarchy and encouraging a playful and experimental approach.



Pictured is the contemporary version of the piece, a large metallic cloth accompanied by a plethora of coloured thread and needles. My enthusiasm to participate was hampered only by my sewing abilities; which were a little rusty having not been employed since primary school. I had a go none the less and the results are shown below, a little feline attached to the already present bus ticket with some interesting red lines.



The original pieces were impressive patchwork creations, a far cry to their contemporary counterpart, which although interesting and an enjoyable experience to take part in, was looking slightly bare and lacking the commonplace sewing skills of yesteryear.