13 Comments
User's avatar
Kristen's avatar

“I only managed to stitch eight full denim jackets last year.” Ye gods! The word “only” should be nowhere near that sentence! Those in themselves are herculean efforts!

Slavetothestitch's avatar

Yes, you are right! Your comment made me laugh Kristen. In the context I was saying that I had been asked my loads of people for stitching but I was only able to stitch 8 full jackets, which equates to 8 happy customers. That is what has lead me to do smaller pieces, they are more affordable in general and I can stitch for more people. I don't like disappointing people who ask by saying sorry I'm too busy or have them wait for a long time. I'm trying it out this year and see if there is enough demand and how I feel about it. But I actually thought 8 full jackets in a year was damn good going 😊

Linda Jackson 🌏's avatar

This one got me too! If I only did one denim jacket in my life it would be a wonderful thing.

You are so incredibly prolific Owen!

Leonora Ross's avatar

Great interview!

Laura A. Drury's avatar

What a fantastic article!! Love to see all your work! I didn’t realize you did Vyshyvanka!! I can’t wait to see your exhibition in Cambridge, MA…. I grew up near Harvard Square. Looking forward it🥰

Slavetothestitch's avatar

I wouldn't say myself that I do any one style but I have certainly explored and learned techniques that I “mash up” into my own work, consciously or unconsciously. This was in response to a question I was asked about my influences by the interviewer.

Nancy Bernardo's avatar

Wow, what a great write up !!! You have many wonderful pieces that stand out... It warms my heart to see the children with your work. Keep stitching my friend, your "bright patch" is making a difference in our world.

Slavetothestitch's avatar

Thank you Nancy 😊 that's heart warming

susan conner's avatar

Dude!! Owen. I love your hat. And your picture for some not-so-odd reason reminds me of Leon Russell. And that is a great compliment to you. I haven't read the entire article yet but I will. It's 4am and I need sleep. Everything you do is so amazing and colorful. I can only imagine what goes on in your mind.

Thank you for sharing your many gifts and all the color. ♥️🩵💜🩷🧡

Slavetothestitch's avatar

I'll take that as a compliment 😊 thanks Susan, sweet dreams ❤️

Linda Jackson 🌏's avatar

What a wonderful article and bio Owen. It's a fabulous intro for all your upcoming exhibits, and I love that pic of you. It really does have Leon Russell vibes. 💙

Seamus is beaming to hear his name mentioned and see his picture with sweet Elodie. We've left Lamap behind, but she and the other kids there live in our hearts. And a few of our friends here on Substack have made generous donations to the work that Elodie's grandmother champions through the women's center.

Slavetothestitch's avatar

That's wonderful news 🤠

SueSt's avatar

Appreciate your take on the write up and hold space for the nuances that didn’t make it in but show up in your craft and Substack shares. Thanks so much for sharing them and your show dates/places! Looking forward to seeing your work in Boston later this year!