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Shanghai

In 1987 we visited the Shanghai Art and Craft Institiute, found in one of the old mansions previously owned by an international group. Many activities were happening, but the most impressive was the great range of fine embroidery.
floral
embroidery
metal work

wool stitchery

Animals are a favouite subject. This dog is worked in wool, with realistic texture.

machine

All work was not by hand, showing that machine embroidery can be a creative art.

Silk scarves are tie-dyed to create colourful designs

dyeing

scarves

 

 

silk paper

A young artist paints on "silk paper." This medium is very fine tussah silk fabric that has been treated with a stiffener to give it body and stability.