In this episode, we sit down with Amanda Cobbett, an award-winning textile artist whose stunning embroidered sculptures bring the intricate textures of nature to life. From delicate fungi to organic bark formations, Amanda’s work blurs the line between scientific observation and creative craft. If you’ve ever felt tempted to try your hand at free-hand embroidery, been mesmerised by the beauty of fungi (or just wondered how someone could embroider a toadstool so convincingly it might start sprouting spores), this episode’s for you.
"The masks are gritty, visceral, and truth-telling, and they ask the public to engage in that experience within themselves."
- Katie Green
Takeaways from this episode
- Art helps us see ourselves more clearly.
Katie’s work explores how her masks can be both shields and windows, expressing what words cannot. What parts of yourself do you share with the world via your artwork, and what stays beneath the surface?
- Your identity - and art - are always evolving.
Katie’s portraits, murals and masks capture shifting emotions, identities, and versions of self. How could you use your creativity and art to examine the different aspects of who you are?
- Expressing yourself doesn’t mean having all the answers.
Katie lets her artwork emerge intuitively, allowing her subconscious to take shape on the page. What could happen if you released expectations and created from a place of curiosity and flow?
Explore the artwork from this episode below
During the live interview, we shared some images of Katie’s artwork. Since you’re listening to the podcast version, we’ve made these images available for you below. You can also watch Katie's documentaries on Behind the Mask and Bridge on YouTube.
Join the conversation
What inspired you this episode? Share your biggest insight or favourite moment by tagging @FibreArtsTakeTwo on social media or using #FibreArtsPodcast!