Embroidered Picture c. 1937

James H.C. Vail made this embroidered picture, we're not sure exactly when, but it feels like the kind of thing you get lost in. Look at the way the texture comes alive! The wool is built up in layers, strokes of thread creating depth, shadow, a real feeling of volume. It's not trying to trick you, it’s all on the surface. The palette is really interesting too, muted blues and greens. You can tell how much time went into choosing each colour and the way they sit together. The stitching around the edge is so visible, so present. It's like Vail is saying, "Here it is, the labor, the love, the work." It reminds me of Bill Traylor, who also turned to art-making later in life. He has a similar sense of joy in the act of creation. It’s a simple scene, maybe, but that's what makes it so powerful. We can all connect to it.