Echoing Lines is an exhibition of recent works of traditional English embroidery by the artist Chenyi (Cher) Liu, alongside sketches and preparatory works, showcasing the development of the piece and the time and effort that were involved. The centrepiece is an interactive embroidery work by Cher and the community of Staines in March 2025, which is still a work in progress.
7th – 15th June
10:00 – 16:00
Talking Tree
Free Event
Being one of the oldest forms of art, the history of embroidery can be traced back thousands of years. And like all things, the presence and essence of embroidery evolved with time. In modern days, embroidery has departed from what once was integral to household and community practices, it is now often relegated to high-end fashion, exclusive art, or niche hobbyist pursuits. The accessibility of embroidery today presents a paradox: while material kits and beginner-friendly techniques like cross-stitching have democratized entry into the craft, traditional hand embroidery, with its vast repertoire of stitches, threads, and canvases, remains a discipline demanding significant skill, time, and dedication. This duality raises the question: how can embroidery, an art form deeply rooted in functional storytelling, reclaim its place in contemporary life as an accessible and expressive medium?
These questions are at the heart of Cher Liu’s practice as a professional embroiderer: how to make embroidery more accessible to all, and how to combine traditional techniques with contemporary approaches, are deeply rooted in her work and research.
Thrive Festival 