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Learn About the Illustrative Embroidery of Sarah K. Benning in This Gorgeous Book

By Margherita Cole on January 2, 2020

Recently, there has been a resurgence in the age-old craft of hand embroidery. Artists across the internet have picked up the trade and shared their unique interpretations, including art history-inspired brooches, English landscapes, and 3D portraits. Among them is contemporary artist Sarah K. Benning, whose hand-stitched creations are as vibrant as they are detailed.

Based in New Hampshire, Benning was trained in fine art before discovering a passion for embroidery. Through inspiration and determined hard work, Benning's hobby soon developed into a full-time career. Her acute focus on drawing and composition produces pieces that resemble full-fledged illustrations. In this way, Benning's aesthetic is instantly recognizable. Her love of botany, interior design, and antique textiles all feature themselves in her miniature, hand-stitched “paintings.”

Now, you can learn about Benning’s artistic journey through the newly-released book entitled Embroidered Life: The Art of Sarah K. Benning. Written by illustrator and My Modern Met writer Sara Barnes, this book explores Benning’s creative practice and how she runs a successful small business. The hardcover is decorated with real stitching, and, as you flip through the pages, you’ll find dozens of colorful photos of Benning's hand-stitched illustrations. It’s a must-have book for contemporary embroiderers yearning to learn more about the versatile art form.

You can find this one-of-a-kind book in My Modern Met Store.