Sue Burton

 

 

 

 

 

I am an enthusiastic amateur with a lifelong interest in needlecraft and exhibiting for the first time. Introduced to the pleasure of sewing as a child by my mother, I have continued to expand my knowledge and am at a loss without some work in progress.

Working at Hertfordshire Archives & Local Studies when this exciting project started, I decided I would like to be a part of it.  The Wittewronge archive collection covers a wide range of subjects and it is amazing that the material has inspired so many individual pieces of work. It has been a privilege to meet people who are incredibly skilled and from a variety of backgrounds.  Initially I was overawed by their talent and was unsure that my own skills would be sufficient. However, I have learned from others and their advice has been generously given.  I have challenged myself creatively and managed to combine my passion for needlework and my occupation – not a bad achievement!

This project demonstrates that, given the opportunity to access archive collections, new audiences can be acquired and inspired to produce stunning works of creativity.

About my Piece

Panel depicting aspects of the adventurous life of George Clifford, Earl of Cumberland – courtier, Queen’s Champion and privateer.

The document ‘Voyages of George Clifford’ (HALS/DE/Lw/F74) was my inspiration – primarily, the script on the frontispiece describing this charismatic man in verse. Further research into other aspects of his life, particularly his dress armour, which still survives, has contributed to my work.

The circular frame of the centrepiece symbolises Clifford’s global expeditions. One of his ships, The Malice Scourge, and the Tudor rose are represented.

The predominant gold colour reflects his wealth and the intricate patterns from his armour. The black script on pale fabric reflects the original archive document.

Techniques: embroidery, applique and quilting on cotton and silk fabric, using stranded, cotton and metallic threads, and stitched using some of those traditionally used in Elizabethan embroidery.