Material Histories
Material Histories is a series of unique works that embody artist Emily Xie’s focus on texture and abstracted mythological motifs, bringing them together for the first time with tactile, handmade embroidery.
This series bridges computational artistry with traditional textile craftsmanship—two disciplines historically interconnected and central to Xie’s creative vision. The interplay between her digital methods and tangible materials highlights a cultural dialogue between the virtual and physical realms, demonstrating their potential to enhance and complement each other.
Each piece in the collection represents one of six elements from both Eastern and Western traditions: earth, wood, metal, fire, water, and air. These elemental themes evoke ancient stories and mythologies, imbuing the works with a sense of strength and timeless lore while reflecting Xie’s signature abstract style.
The creative process begins with an algorithm designed by Xie to generate fluid, multi-textured forms. The outputs are then processed through artificial intelligence, producing thousands of images. Xie selects and reworks fragments of these to craft hybrid, digitally inspired compositions. These designs are subsequently transformed into physical artworks over eight months, with artisans meticulously hand-embroidering the patterns onto canvas. Each piece is mounted on hand-stretched frames.
Material Histories marks Xie’s inaugural venture into bespoke physical artistry, drawing upon the traditional Asian textile methods that have long inspired her.
Hand embroidered stretched canvas, 48 x 36 in. (#1-2) or 20 x 15 in. (#3-6) with solid handmade oak wood float frame, signed on verso.
MEDIUM: digital collage, algorithmic techniques and textures w/ Javascript, generative AI for the digital design. Translated into handmade embroidery.