The Red Dress: Conversations in Stitch (Paperback) Kirstie Macleod (author)

The Red Dress documents the extraordinary 14.5-year global collaboration conceived by British artist Kirstie Macleod. Embroidered by 367 women and girls, 7 men and boys, and 2 non-binary artists across 51 countries, the project gave voice to individuals - many living in poverty or vulnerable circumstances - through the powerful, personal language of stitch.

All 141 commissioned artisans were paid for their work and received ongoing annual donations from exhibition fees and merchandise profits. As the dress travelled the world, additional embroideries were added by participants and audiences, creating a richly layered textile story of identity, resilience and connection.

Stitch as Dialogue

What began as a cross-cultural exploration of identity evolved into a global platform for self-expression. The project highlights embroidery - often seen as domestic craft - as a meaningful artistic and political act, amplifying voices that are frequently unheard.

Beautifully illustrated, this book celebrates:

• Global collaboration through textile art

• The power of slow stitching as storytelling

• Cultural exchange across borders

• The impact of craft as empowerment

Publisher: Quickthorn

An inspiring volume for textile artists, embroidery enthusiasts, and anyone interested in art, activism, and the transformative power of creativity.