Sampler c. 1938

This sampler was made in 1813. It’s stitched with thread on linen and it’s so interesting to think about the time, and process that went into making this. Look at the texture in the fabric. You can practically feel the weave. The whole thing is built with tiny x-shapes, which give the impression of pixels. Each stitch seems so deliberate, a little meditation. It's limited to a few colors: green for the trees, and blue, red, and brown for the letters and other elements. The overall impression is both delicate and sturdy. I love the trees lined up at the bottom, so simple, but you instantly recognize what they are. And above, the careful inscription, telling us that Gunice W. Cook made this when she was ten years old. It makes you think about how much time she must have spent with this piece. It’s like Agnes Martin, but with thread. And you just know that making something like this is like a conversation, not only with yourself, but with everyone else who’s ever made anything.