Judy Polstra "The hardest decision"

Judy Polstra "The hardest decision" 2024

Hand Embroidery on Vintage Textiles, Unframed
Dimensions: 15 x 7 in
Unique
Signed,  Includes certificate of authenticity 

Judy Polstra is a mostly self-taught artist who grew up surrounded by art, books, and sewing. Born in New Mexico in 1965, she grew up in North Canton, Ohio where her mother taught her hand embroidery basics at age 7. Judy Polstra is dedicated to her hand embroidery roots. Judy embroiders almost exclusively on vintage textiles, many of which were inherited from her mother and grandmothers. Fans of Judy’s works often gift her with vintage textiles from their own families. Polstra uses embroidery to stitch political statements, as well as personal confessions and observations. Judy continues to be inspired by women’s issues and politics as well as vintage and current fashion. Judy refuses to believe that hand embroidery (historically considered “women’s work”) is any less valid a form of art than any other art medium. Polstra continues to exhibit nationwide and has been collected throughout the United States, Italy, and Australia. Polstra’s hand-embroidered works are regularly published in “The Nation”. Polstra’s studio is in her home in South Florida, where she shares her space with her beloved rescue dogs, cats, and husband of almost thirty years.

“Hand embroidery is both my therapy and "weapon" of choice. I am particularly drawn to women's rights and healthcare issues.  I hand embroidered several of these works during the current president's first term, never dreaming they would become even MORE relevant years later. Hand embroidery is historical "women's work", and ties me to my ancestors who were seamstresses and other women who came before me.” - Judy Polstra