In this episode, we meet Holly Searle - the creative force behind The Subversive Stitcher, whose textile-based practice turns embroidery into protest. Born in Central London and shaped by the “make do and mend” generation, Holly rediscovered her artistic voice after a striking encounter with a Victorian sampler at the Wellcome Collection.
Her acclaimed Subverted Vintage Tea Towel Series, launched during the pandemic, boldly reimagines domestic textiles with commentary on women’s rights, mental health, and social justice. Through slow craft and radical messaging, Holly stitches a lineage of feminist resistance.
From community-led Subverted Stitching Workshops to private commissions, Holly’s work invites reflection, connection, and activism — one thread at a time.
Episode recorded on 10 July 2025
Explore more: thesubversivestitcher.com
Instagram: @the_subversive_stitcher | @dameprudeewench | @iamwomanproject22
Podcast details:
Podcast email: artiststalespodcast@gmail.com
Website: www.artiststales.net
Instagram: @artists_tales_podcast
Threads: @artists_tales_podcast
