Emma Eley

In a time of excessive consumption, there is value in looking again at what we already have, choosing to reuse and repair rather than replace. Through this process, objects gather stories; marks, fading, fraying and repairs become quiet records of where they have been, preserving memories through traces of use. ‘Worn Serenity’ explores this relationship between storytelling and the passage of time, considering how signs of wear can become part of a new narrative. Inspired by the Japanese philosophy of Wabi-Sabi, Emma embraces imperfection, impermanence and the beauty of what is incomplete.

Constructed from second-hand cotton bed sheets, hemp cheesecloth and denim, the fabrics are naturally dyed to create a soft, muted palette. Their imperfections and previous signs of use are intentionally retained, allowing the work to reflect ideas of memory and change. Boro and Sashiko stitching, alongside goldwork, are combined with digital machine embroidery, bringing together traditional and contemporary techniques. The layered stitches and textures create a tactile surface that reflects the passage of time.

Together, these processes transform signs of wear into symbols of resilience and renewal. Rather than offering a fixed narrative, Emma invites the viewer to reflect on the stories held within objects and consider how their meaning can change through time, repair and reinterpretation