It is a fact that anyone can learn how to stitch Bargello needlepoint if there is interest, time and patience; but to raise one’s stitching to the level of art requires an understanding of “the way”.
During a recent Japanese Embroidery class morning talk, Master Tamura talked about the meaning of “Nuido, the way of embroidery“. He shared that there are three pillars of Nuido: rationality (skill and technique), sensitivity (design and color), and spirituality (heart…”the way”). It is the combination of all three that elevates Japanese Embroidery to the level of art.
The same can be said for “the way” of Bargello needlepoint. It is easy to learn the techniques, stitches and steps; but if one stops there the result is a clinically worked piece with excellent technique and no life.
You need to “feel” it. Sensitivity to Bargello designs and color schemes must be added…even progressing to the point of experimentation and creation of unique Bargello patterns, and employing all five senses to fashion Bargello masterpieces.
But it doesn’t stop there. To practice “the way” of Bargello needlepoint is to express one’s creative voice by stitching with the heart. In doing so, a glimpse of the needle artist’s personality is revealed to those who view and admire the finished work, and their lives and hearts are touched as well.
Leonardo da Vinci once said, “Where the spirit does not work with the hand there is no art.” This quote is a fitting motto for “The Way of Bargello Needlepoint”. To truly create a work of Bargello needle art requires an “out-working” of the spirit…from the mind (technique) to creativity (heart) to application (spirit poured out through the hands).
The 2010 Bargello Needlepoint Challenge has taught me much about “the way” of Bargello Needlepoint. Stitching a Bargello design every day has given me inner serenity, a desire to pursue true artistry and stitching excellence, and a chance for my spirit to be poured out through my hands.
Hello Kamala,
Thanks for your encouragement. It’s good to know that you may consider adding Bargello needlepoint to your array of needlework talents. When you do, just drop me a line and I’ll help you get started. Keep on Stitchin’, Althea
Hello Sara,
Thanks for your kind words. You are on the right track with taking your time and exercising patience in making your needlepoint pillow. You will definitely enjoy it more. Regards, Althea
I love this post and your gorgeous Bargello needlepoint. I’ve always embroidered as a spiritual practice, putting a prayer or affirmation into each stitch. I’ve never done Bargello, but your site is so inspiring, I may have to take it up. Blessings, Kamala
Once more you have ‘struck a chord’ in your writing. I am close to finishing a pair of Bargello cushions for a gift to be given in September – so there is still plenty of time! The first cushion has given me huge pleasure to work and I am very happy that my original concept for this piece is turning out even better than planned. When designing the partner for the first/main piece I thought I would use up a spare piece of 10 holes to the inch mesh canvas and a 6-3 step pattern and so, cunningly, would be finished in no time! 5 days later: indeed I have sewed a decent sized project of nearly 14″ x 14″ but I dislike the piece intensely! The piece contains none of the 3 pillars of Nuido as you described and tomorrow I will begin a brand new piece as a replacement and so learn that there must be no compromise in true art. Fortunately I won’t be under time pressure so here goes …!
Best wishes once more, Sara