Annette has spent 20 years in fashion textile prediction, selling fingerprint originals to top fashion houses. Her curiosity about culture and textile practices has enriched her embroidery techniques, now evolving into digital machine practice.
Annette also coordinates an arts collective, teaching stitching techniques to alleviate mental stress and promote sustainable mending and upcycling.
The “Shroud for Life” uses layered embroidery to depict preventable environmental catastrophes, such as oil spills, wildfires, and industrial pollution, highlighting the impact of human decisions on the planet. Shrouds are used in funeral rites by many human cultures, but here the shroud contains life itself.
By incorporating floral motifs and layered stitches, the decoration contrasts environmental destruction with nature’s resilience and historical continuity.
“The Shroud for Life” symbolises the human race’s responsibility to protect and preserve the environment. Through this piece, the artist aims to represent the preventable catastrophes that could be avoided if society placed safety, love and respect for the planet above all else. The shroud signifies the interconnectedness of all living things and emphasises that Earth is not owned solely by humans but shared with every creature and plant in the ecosystem. We have the ability to coexist and create a more harmonious world. The artist intentionally chose not to create a fully sustainable piece, wanting to explore the environmental impact of commercial production. They used materials already available, such as polyester netting, instead of purchasing new, highlighting how even recycled polyester can be problematic, as its demand increases plastic production. The artist contrasts this with natural fibres, which offer a more sustainable alternative due to their ability to biodegrade or be repurposed. Incorporating Madeira’s Sensa Green thread, made from biodegradable TENCEL™ Lyocell fibres, the artist supports eco-friendly choices. Solar energy was also used in parts of the production, underscoring the importance of renewable energy. Overall, the piece serves as a call for innovation in sustainability and a deeper reflection on the true environmental impact of material choices in fashion and manufacturing.
We have the ability to coexist and create a more harmonious world. The artist intentionally chose not to create a fully sustainable piece, wanting to explore the environmental impact of commercial production.
