Embroidered History
Elmedina Shkurti-Haxhifazliu
Embroidered History by Elmedina Shkurti-Haxhifazliu revives historical photographs through the art of embroidery, blending visual storytelling with traditional craftsmanship. The project reinterprets 13 vintage black-and-white photographs by accentuating selected details with vibrant threadwork, adding new dimensions to images of public spaces, traditional attire, family portraits, and iconic moments captured by renowned photographers.
The works were created as part of a collaborative workshop led by a professional embroiderer, involving Shkurti-Haxhifazliu and other participants. This creative process not only highlights historical narratives but also fosters the preservation and reinterpretation of embroidery as a cultural practice, weaving together memory, tradition, and contemporary art.
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Programme
HS Fellowship
Timeline
29.08.2019
—01.12.2019
Project Lead
Contributors
- Project Lead: Elmedina Shkurti - Haxhifazliu
Formats
Elmedina's work reimagines historic representations of heritage sites by intervening in black-and-white archival images through embroidery. Using publicly available photographs from history books, she layers delicate yet bold threadwork onto these images. Through the use of color, she brings new textures and perspectives to these familiar yet often overlooked sites.
To refine her technique, she collaborated with experienced embroiders, learning the craft and exploring its potential as a tool for artistic intervention. She also facilitated a workshop with other women, creating a shared space for learning and experimentation.
These works were exhibited at the Gazi Mehmet Pasha Hammam in Prizren, on November 29th 2019.