I think St Francis of Assisi would agree with you as he said:- “If you work with your hands, you're a labourer. If you work with your hands and your mind, you're a craftsman. If you work with your hands and your mind and your heart, you're an artist.” X
In German there is a word "Kunsthandwerk". It is composit containing: Kunst = art and Handwerk = craftsmanship and it is perfect here, I believe. Meaning you are creating art but using techniques/ materials / methods traditionally used in craftsmanship
In Norwegian we have words for crafter and artist, but also the word "kunsthåndverker" which translates to " art hand crafter". A beautiful and helpful word that shows the sometimes blurred lines between arts and crafts.
The word `Kunsthandwerk` exists in german too! Being a goldsmith I always loved saying I am a Kunsthandwerker, because I create `Kunst` but at the same time I work in a `Handwerk`. There are also Kunsthandwerkermärkte, wich are small markets open to really anyone reguardless of Skilllevel to sell their hand crafted items (although you need to have a licensed business, we are still in germany, mind you...-_-) They have beautiful products there, often sold by people who never `learned it properly`or do it part time for fun.
You are not only an artist with thread and fabric... you are an artist with video and photography. You are, in fact, a filmmaker, a producer, a storyteller, an actress, and much more. Are you an artist? Hella yes! ❤
In high school I had a teacher ask the class to define art. We as a class decided it was something created that makes you feel. It can be a painting, a dance, a chair, a dress. If it was made and it makes you feel, no matter the feeling, it is art. So by that if you create things that make emotions happen you're an artist. All the other titles are a way to define what kind of artist you are. At least that's what my class thought and it's what I still see as an artist all these years later.
I am hobbiest level Textile Artist. I'm watching your videos out of order, but taking mental notes as I go. I recently obtained a very large quilting frame, so watching how you prepare the frame and stretch the fabric had been the most informative bit. Sewing is simple enough. Where I struggle is in obtaining and learning to use tools.
My favorite thing about Cathy’s videos is that I learn so much more than sewing and embroidery. For example I need to add “church” to my Airbnb search field.
You shouldn't have to be the best at something or even good at it to claim to be an artist, writer, sculptor or crafts person. There will always be people telling you what you can and cannot be. If you are not hurting anyone ignore them and be yourself as hard as you can. Thanks.
Well, I too have struggled with calling myself an artist. For many years I concentrated solely on tiny crochet on doilies. You can't say I wasn't making lace. I took an art history class and the teacher asked what artistic pursuits we each had and I realized that my crochet was art. Since then I have changed my focus to quilting and modern clothing production for myself and my husband. Clearly quilting is an art, especially the way I have done it with some hand piecing, some machine piecing, and either home machine quilting or long stitch quilting by hand. So I'm an artist although my work is not anywhere near the technical level of yours and certainly has no historical value per se. Who knows, maybe in 100 years one of my quilts will be considered historically important, you never know LOL.
I love how you deep dive onto one big project and take such careful time and attention to the details of it! I used to feel self-concious calling myself an artist (I sew, knit, crochet, and embroider) but now I call myself an artist proudly. Art stereotypically seen as "women's work" is often devalued, or seen as simple/easy. So calling myself an artist is almost a political statement for myself 😂 my work takes a LOT of time, skill, and patience! Not everyone can do what I do! Not trying to sound superior, I certainly don't think of myself as superior to anyone/ any other artist, but sewing IS a skill that requires years of honing and I've encountered some people who seem to find that concept puzzling...😂 Right now I'm also working on a big embroidery project, making myself a traditional vyshyvanka / Ukrainian peasant blouse. My great grandparents immigrated from Ukraine and I'm trying to connect with my heritage.
That's why I like the term creator. People don't think but also engineering has its artistic side. It all gets down to the act of creating and a creative mind is an artistic mind.
What a beautiful life you have created for yourself here Cathy. How amazing to be in this place. To travel and embroider and do art in the most authentic way - the masterpiece of your life being so awe inspiring and on display for us all - that is an artist in my book.
I tend to feel that I'm a crafter as I use other peoples pattern's etc. but I think artists are able to create or alter their own creations. However to each their own title. Your videos are wonderful thank you for all the work you do to bring them to us.
I think of it the same way! Artists make things of their own minds, I make things of other people's minds, mainly. I simply have no mind for aesthetic conjuring, so I get to have a great time making use of others ideas and bringing them to life!
Anyone who produces these types of garments is an artist. Anyone who make anything that is created is an artist. The creation of a house dress can be concidered an art. You are that and so is anyone else. Love the work and the encouragement. Have fun doing what you love. Enjoy the process and be good to you. H😊ugs
Thank you Cathy Hay - you are an artist and by this video have inspired me to support a son who really is an artist in his own right. He is still young, but what he makes with his hands, mind and heart with all kinds of material truly is significant and of high quality. He has been acknowledged many times from other people...Today I shall invite him to acknowledge himself as being an artist and own to it.
I'm not a sewer, per se, but I have followed you for quite a while because there is something very zen about the way you approach projects and talk about life and how to think of one's self. I greatly admire your work and sincerely thank you for the nudges of life encouragement you give. Be well, dear friend.
Because of all the hats I wear, I call myself a "One Person Wardrobe Department" . I design, draft, cut patterns and pieces, stitch and finishes, as well as research. I will also call myself an Experimental Antiquarian, with the other end of my life, the rest of historical domestic life. Absolutely love you Cathy, keep stitching.
Wow! Cathy, I'm just blown away by the timing of your conversation topics. I have made music for (mumble-mumble) years and could easily think of myself as an amateur trombonist, violinist, violaist. I also dabble with guitar, banjo, and other stringed instruments. For many (25-ish) years I was a part of patriotic musical group that put together a program for the public on the 4th of July. Recently an individual who regularly attended these programs over the years referred to me as an "Entertainer". At first I balked at that title, but on reflection I realized how accurate it was. My music did not have to live up anyone's standard of perfection in order to be entertaining, and if others found it entertaining, then I was, I am, in fact an entertainer. I have claimed that title! I AM an Entertainer! It has changed how I feel about myself, and how I look at my musical performances. I has been liberating in more ways than I anticipated and expected. It has prompted me to borrow (with permission) my wife's sewing machine and make a couple of things using some techniques I have only read about, including piping around the outer seams. We all can be, no, we all are artists of some type and should be willing to accept that, claim that title, as we create the art we create.
To me beautiful is a feeling and it is most certainly inspired by this work of artistry. I told a lot of people I'm not creative but I'm a great editor. I think it's because its so important to me to remember who/what/where/and when I am inspired. I find that to be a common occurrence with your channel. I am human and I love this.
I have heard from several small business owners how -no matter how much they loved their business- it took over their life and took them away from other important things [i.e. family, kids, the actual craft] it takes a brave person to step away from what you have built and set 'the baby' free after all the work you put into it. It takes wisdom and strength to step away, hand it off, and watch it do it's thing from the sidelines. Good luck in your future endeavors, I can't wait to see where you go next.
I primarily call myself a quilter as these days I mostly make patchwork quilts, but in the past I did dressmaking and some costuming too. I have also used the term textile artist and also just plain sewer. Your embroidery is coming along beautifully :)
Yes I do call myself an artist full of creativity. And I haven’t thought twice about it. Who cares what people thing or say about you . They will do so anyway . As long as you feel authentic all is good 🤗
I've called myself a "fiber artist" for fifty years. Everything I craft with is either cotton, linen, wool or silk. My husband even bought me flax and woad seeds so I can make yarn and dye it especially for myself!
I added this video to my watch list about a year ago and today is the first time I got a chance to actually sit down and watch and the timing is very fitting. I couldn’t even admit to being creative to a friend a few days, felt that as it’s not something I regularly get to do then I didn’t deserve to call myself creative. The way we put ourselves down is crazy. I probably would have combusted had I dared to call myself an artist!
I think you're so right about calling oneself an artist. I say my daughter is an artist, but never myself. However, my husband says I'm an artist and where she inherited her skills. I call myself a quilter, a crocheter, a knitter, a handicrafter of all kinds.
This is so relatable. I am a graphic designer, illustrator and I also paint and do linocut a lot. I create things all the time. After years of struggle, I finally put the word artist in my mail signature. And everyday I feel like a fraud when I see it. There is so much work to do to reach proper self esteem.
Catheeee! You artist, you! ❤❤❤ Thanks for banging this drum with me: we sooo deserve to call ourselves what we do/are regardless of whether we’re taking commissions, signing contracts, or simply Doing The Thing.
Thank you for your videos -- they are a beautiful combination of joy, peace, encouragement, and excitement. Thank you for taking the time to share with us.
I’ve been a dance major, an art major, been to two photography schools, a pastry chef who sculpts cake, done stained glass, study piano, thrown clay, needlepoint, currently a rabid knitter, create costumes, have ideas for installations and have always said I dabble in crafts. I’m taking your advice, I’m finally an artist! ❤
I call myself a seamstress most days. I have other creative hobbies besides sewing. But when it comes to sewing in particular, I focus mostly on repairs, alterations and reworking. It's SUPER RARE for me to embark on a truly creative sewing project from scratch. But I sew all the time, even if it's just a simple sock darn or loose button. So, "seamstress" works for me. I truly love this velvet coat series. More than the project itself, I truly love everything you're teaching us about everything you've learned along the way. There's such bravery and strength in each of your videos. I'm here for this positive, forward-moving energy.
Watching you work is such a privilege and a delight. There's no rush, no shortcuts - just patience, superb craftsmanship, and the calm confidence of knowing it will take as long as it takes and you will get there. Every stitch is its own tiny work of art. I think part of art is that it draws people in, makes them want to watch and admire someone's hard work, skill, passion, and talent. You are undoubtedly an artist, both as a seamstress and as an embroiderer, and also as a filmmaker and teacher. Your work inspires others and brings joy and wonder to people around the world. 💖
I call it a mindset to be an artist. Its a mindset to want to create something that is beautiful, or makes a statement, or anything else you want your art to say. I consider myself to be an artist not only because I paint and do digital art, but even more so in my creative writing.
I just love the things you make even if someone else designed it the fact that you can recreate them takes a huge amount of talent and patience! Thank you for sharing the process with us.
I love the sens of freedom in Cathy's videos. I always feel very inspired after watching them. Thank you for your content and for what you're doing Cathy. Sending love and positive energy!
The beauty of unregulated titles used to self-identify, like calling yourself an artist, is that the only requirement is the audacity is give yourself the title. And being an artist certain does require a level of audaciousness.
Thank you for mentioning quilting! I am an avid quilter...have been for 10 years. My skill level has gotten me to the place where I consider myself something more than a "hobbyist." I've found a wonderful community (mostly grandmas) that wnat to pass down the craft (as you described it). My dream is to quilt full time as a vocation. I'm working on that dream, it just takes time. Thanks for the update on the coat. You are doing great work!
your work is always so lovely! I'd love to get back into embroidery. my grandmother was teaching me when i was younger. she won a lot of competitions and fairs when she was younger. her work was beautiful.
I would 💯% say you are an artist! Of the highest caliber, my dear! Felt like I had magically stepped off at Hogwarts, on the 1st video I found of you, at the Royal School of Needlework! I never understood the enthusiasm of folks about Harry Potter movies, NOW, after finding you, I get it! I find you and your "artistry", fascinating! Thank you for sharing! 🌿💜❤️🤍🩷💛💚
I'm a maker. I'm much more interested in the craft, the production, than the emotion or the message. This is what, I think, differentiates me from an artist.
This video brings me excitement and joy! I'm also currently doing embriodery/ beading work on a similar size frame, 6ft × 3ft! I totally understand the endurance, hardwork, & concentration you're going through with this project. Most of my embroidery works take about 2-3 months to complete. Let's keep on pushing forward with our embroidery projects! 😁👍
I love this conversation! I usually refer to myself as a maker, but i was recently thinkig of myself more as a fiber artist. In the same way I've heard sculptors talk about seeing what the wood, or clay, or stone wants to be, I've started feeling that way towards cloth and yarn.
I've always considered myself an artisan rather than an artist. I do not get inspired I do not have ideas, I just love the process of making, but I believe it lacks originality. And I don't care. I'm just happy to be making things, enjoying the process. It was true when I was writing and it is true when I am sewing. And is the most true when I'm doing diamond paintings, there is absolutely no creativity in that.
Craft = using human skill to make practical or decorative things very well. Art= making things with no practical use, only communication, that add to the arc of the human intellectual and emotive narrative. Hobby= art or craft without revenue. As a failed Artist turned, Hobbiest, turned Craftsman these are my settled definitions. I am happy with Craftsman as an accurate title, even as a woman, but importantly as a human that makes things, very well. You Cathy I would say are a Performance Artist, on UA-cam. The things you make, you make very well, and you are also a Craftsman. It is the video that speaks to people’s minds and hearts about what textiles mean in our modern life in relation to our history.
Cathy, I like the way you encourage us to think of ourselves more in the way of what we want to be, so identifying with it and stretching our imagination to achieve more of it! I feel you are giving me permission to be more adventurous! Wonderful, thank you. ❤🎉😊
I call myself a singer and a musician. But you've made me think about other things. I would call myself a textile artist, as I knit, crochet, sew, embroider, and make all sorts of things. I am a singer, musician, and textile artist. I like that. Thank you!
I found this 'artist' question interesting. I was having the very same talk with my daughter just several weeks ago. We have our little room at our craft village and make toys, kids clothes, artworks etc to sell. We decided that we are artists, as we create artworks in yarns, fabric, clay. Some might disagree but I am happy with my new title. Dressmaker here means home sewn with a downturned nose. Crafter doesn't have much more to imply other than cheap and nasty. Thank goodness for tourists that give wonderful feedback and a very positive attitude and tons of joy, whilst actually buying our created hard work. I AM AN ARTIST...😊😊😊
When I started to listen to this video, I said: "She is such a beautiful/wonderful artist!" Surprise! Your talk was on "claiming the title -Artist= " Too funny. I dabble in all sorts of things. From Zentangle, to quilting, to making Dorset Buttons to..... I love everything I do. I do it for me. Nothing is sold. It gives me so much in return. Yes. I am an artist. There. I've claimed it. Thank-you for sharing your thoughts......and your artistic talent! -Angele 💝
What I call myself depends on what I'm doing. I'm a cook, and a gardener, but when I'm in the studio, I'm a fiber artist. That covers whether I'm sewing, knitting, weaving, or anything I make with fiber.
I call myself a maker. Creativity is an important part of my life and expression but it’s a hobby that I squeeze in around my life. I follow other people’s patterns and modify them so I’ve never felt like a true artist. For me that means making it all from scratch.
I call myself an "artist" and a "scientist" regardless of whether I'm employed in either of those fields at the time. I have learnt and can follow the process of both, and incorporate these in my personal projects.
Even though "art" is subjective- I think an artist is someone who creates something for the sake of creating something that typically isn't essential/funtional but desired. Most crafts evolved from creating something functional. For example you are creating a cape. In that regard, the sewing/assembling aspect would be a craft. But the embroidery isn't essential. (Unless it was to "doctor" a tear or hole.) Therefore it comes under the "Decorative ARTS" category. Of course, to me, art is truly ESSENTIAL. I also believe a craftsperson IS an artist. Think SHAKERS. Their "functional" band boxes are ART. Of course, I also think a Shepherd training a sheepdog is an ART. And watching a border collie drive a flock over a hill 200 yards away with the sound of a few well timed whistles is- a masterpiece. 😊
You ARE an artist when you express yourself through beauty. I am a passionate dressmaker and could not understand the ladies that talk about me as "the Mrs who helps me with my dress". She said she didn't want to say "dressmaker" so I would not be offended. I kindly told her dressmaking is an art of which I am very proud, that I am an artist and a creator, not some maid "helping with the dress".
I can't think of a better way to start the day than one of your videos Cathy. It was difficult for me to embrace my creativity. With practice it's easier. Maybe one day I'll be comfortable calling myself an artist...
I think all that you do is an artform making you an artist, your current project is proof of that & coming along nicely. Absolutely love where you are staying.
You wear your glasses when you need them, I do. I like the idea of pockets for herbs, I would make them with tiny Velcro dots so I could change the herbs. The new class sounds interesting, anything I make needs adjusting. I thought about it and I think I will call myself a crafter or craft person, maybe a Jill of all trades master of none kind of person. I love to learn new crafts. My grandma an mom thought me how to sew and crochet and embroidery. I love to draw and paint. I would love to try spinning and weaving, I made my own tablet weaving cards and I made a small flat loom to weave on. I want to make my own Inkle looms. At one time mom n I were heavy into macrame and pottery/ceramics, fun with clay and wheel and also pre-molded stuff. Owning a house requires fixing the house, repair n paint drywall, hang wallpaper, repair/replace trim, lay bathroom tile, put down wood flooring ect.. Over the years I learned woodworking basics, that progressed to making shelves n such. Mom and I also liked to refinish furniture. Then there’s all the other things, gardening and canning and household stuff. The universe threw a fork in the road (or maybe a monkey wrench) so I’m between jobs at the moment considering semi retirement so I have more time to craft things. Who knows what the future holds and what I can learn 😊
im a cosplayer since a few years now and for me this is my form of art, creating a character, acting like a character, sewing the costume, making the pattern, sometimes designing the whole outfit, and i call myself an artist
You have come so far in as much that you are so much happier. You are such a beautiful woman both inside and out. You are also most definitely an ARTIST ! I absolutely love watching and listening to you. GO GIRL !!!
Oh my goodness what a beautiful coat and progress! My Laptop and my iPad broke so I missed your channel for quite a while. I call myself an Artist cause I play Handpan and Monochord. Or making herbal remedies. Or cooking Jam from fruit when harvesting comes. Or drawing window color pictures or even drawing with pencils. Whatever comes to my mind and whatever I make time and rooms for.
Cathy the embroidery is looking beautiful, even the leaves you stitched without your glasses on. I think I am going to call myself whatever I feel like or whatever I am doing on the day, whether that is artist, craftsperson, couture dressmaker, costumer, etc., because I just don't have one label that can encompass all the things I do and make.
I have been an artist for as long as I remember. In high school, I became a published poet because a few of my poems were published in our school's annual creative writing journal. In the last couple months, I have become a professional digital artist because I took my first paid commission and I'm working on my second. While I have been an artist for as long as I can remember, I was not confident enough to call myself one. I can now factually say that I am a professional artist 🥰
Greetings Cathy, When someone says to me what gives you the right? I say, I have a degree and I am a retired Art Director. That seems to shut them up. But, Inside me, I feel I am a bit of everything mixed together (sewest, clothes maker, embroider, painter, quilter, airbrusher, and other mix media). Just like when you make a pie. Mix all the ingredients et Voila! You have an awesome pie! Be yourself. Happy Sewing 🪡
You’re not pretentious you are an artist. I’ve been creating all my life. As far back as I can remember all I ever wanted to do was “make stuff.” I wanted to go to college and study art but we couldn’t afford that so life happened. I retired from working finally and started spending a lot more time creating and I sold a few paintings. You’d better believe I’m an artist, I live and breathe creativity and I’m proud of it, I worked very hard to be able to finally do what I was meant to do all along, I define myself, I don’t leave that up to others, especially those who don’t know me. You’re amazing Ma’am, call yourself an artist all you want, I certainly see you as an artist.
I went to college to become a teacher. I was taught that whatever lessons, manipulatives, games, assessments, everything was to be original. No copying someone else’s work. It was challenging but I conducted my 30 year career that way and was very successful and fulfilled. Now that I am retired I have been teaching myself how to quilt. I look at patterns, and always create something similar always with my own twist. That is my way so I can claim it is my own. It is too late to change and don’t really have any desire to change. So I give myself permission to call myself an artist.
Hi Cathy. I think I finally identified the lovely plant/flower/leaves on the coat! Achillea millefolium or Yarrow. Apparently very popular as a medicinal herb back in the day. Am probably very late to the realisation but was excited it seemed so close to what you are embroidering. ❤
I know I never call myself a writer. Even though it's what I spend nearly all my free time on and it's what I love. Simply because I don't think I'm 'good enough' to call myself that. I'm not published, I've never finished writing anything, very few people have read what I've written. But when I have to describe myself in the least words possible, the one that fits me the best; is writer. It says so much about what I'm like as a person and how my head works. I live 99% in my head, like I think most writers do.
I write and knit primarily, but I've also learned to sew, embroider, and (with my degrees/certifications) teach. I do believe teaching well is an art form, too. I generally refer to myself as "a creative."
As a child I only knew that I wanted to be an artist. I didn’t know what it meant other than creative in the highest form bringing beauty to the world. Today it hasn’t stopped but continues to expand. I am a co creator in art and beauty with god source. It’s what I do in every way as a walk through this realm. Thanking for doing and sharing as you do.
Incredible. I cannot believe the location that you were able to reside in and do your work. Watching you makes me want to pick up an embroidery hoop once again.
I love this so much, Cathy. You ARE an artist. I have an entire book series from the late 19th-early 20th century titled, "The School of the Domestic Arts." The books cover everything from preserving fruit to embroidering underthings. Each volume is a tribute to the arts we have (mostly) collectively forgotten in our age of convenience. Every one of us can be artful in what we do, no matter what it is. You have always brought an artful touch to all your projects. Brava! (PS - I love to see you wearing those suspenders from our last Bath jaunt!)
i definitely think of myself as anrtist, and as a crafter, a knitter, a sewer, an embroiderer. simply because doing those things is an important part of who i am
I feel like I am a maker. I try to source the best materials possible by second resources (as much as possible) and try to make each piece something that I will love and will last me for a lifetime. Side note, I noticed you and Lowana are wearing the exact same shirt in her picture, lol.
I started with painting and drawing, added sculpting and carving, branched out into handyman stuff, added more variations of sewing and sculpting, and dabbled in jewellery, chain mail, and it really just keeps going. Atm, I'm doing goldwork, having finished some knitting. There's spinning and rug hooking waiting for attention too, and some garments half done. It never ends and I'm loving it. But am I an artist? At age 60 I still have zero community recognition. I always figured I needed that before I don the moniker. then I moved into a bus. I realized the bus was 85% art studio, really a rolling art studio with life support. Now I realize, I am definitely an artist. I always gave up a separate bedroom to make a studio, but I called it my workshop. Still, why do people think "artist" is some kind of borrowed glamour?
Yes! I give all of you permission to call yourselves Artist. I am an artist, though I often qualify that as fiber artist (but not to diminish my pride in my work.) My permission came many many years ago from an elderly fiber artist friend. Not that I needed permission, but I thought I did. So here Am I, a crone, passing it on to you. Why am I an artist? I am because I create beauty, fun and joy from bits and pieces that may not be considered beautiful on their own. I am a painter and a sculptor, though I paint and sculpt with yarn and thread and string and wire. I also observe and choose beauty in my life. In my clothes, in my home, and in the places I enjoy visiting
One who sells, is an artisan. A craftsperson. One who makes art is an artist. Both are artists, but one doesn’t require you to be making a product for anyone but yourself. It also doesn’t need to be what we’d normally think of as a product. Dance is definitely an art form. I’d even say the logistical juggling of these two embroidery frames is an art form.
My therapist was the first person to call me an artist. For the longest time I wouldn't allow myself to see me that way, let alove voice it. Nowadays I've been managing to call myself one just to myself or my partner, but it's a big step up for me!
![The Quiet History of Adjustable Clothing [from a non-historian]](/img/n.gif)
I think St Francis of Assisi would agree with you as he said:- “If you work with your hands, you're a labourer. If you work with your hands and your mind, you're a craftsman. If you work with your hands and your mind and your heart, you're an artist.” X
I love this so much!! Thank you Abigail!
What a great saying, thank you very much.
Yes, THIS!❤
In German there is a word "Kunsthandwerk". It is composit containing: Kunst = art and Handwerk = craftsmanship and it is perfect here, I believe.
Meaning you are creating art but using techniques/ materials / methods traditionally used in craftsmanship
Exactly! I knew I was 1/2 German for a reason, they are smart. Thanks !@@petrag.schaaff3330
In Norwegian we have words for crafter and artist, but also the word "kunsthåndverker" which translates to " art hand crafter". A beautiful and helpful word that shows the sometimes blurred lines between arts and crafts.
that is a lovely word! 😍
The word `Kunsthandwerk` exists in german too! Being a goldsmith I always loved saying I am a Kunsthandwerker, because I create `Kunst` but at the same time I work in a `Handwerk`. There are also Kunsthandwerkermärkte, wich are small markets open to really anyone reguardless of Skilllevel to sell their hand crafted items (although you need to have a licensed business, we are still in germany, mind you...-_-) They have beautiful products there, often sold by people who never `learned it properly`or do it part time for fun.
You are not only an artist with thread and fabric... you are an artist with video and photography. You are, in fact, a filmmaker, a producer, a storyteller, an actress, and much more. Are you an artist? Hella yes! ❤
In high school I had a teacher ask the class to define art. We as a class decided it was something created that makes you feel. It can be a painting, a dance, a chair, a dress. If it was made and it makes you feel, no matter the feeling, it is art. So by that if you create things that make emotions happen you're an artist. All the other titles are a way to define what kind of artist you are. At least that's what my class thought and it's what I still see as an artist all these years later.
Great class, terrific teacher, permanent learning.
I am hobbiest level Textile Artist. I'm watching your videos out of order, but taking mental notes as I go. I recently obtained a very large quilting frame, so watching how you prepare the frame and stretch the fabric had been the most informative bit. Sewing is simple enough. Where I struggle is in obtaining and learning to use tools.
My favorite thing about Cathy’s videos is that I learn so much more than sewing and embroidery. For example I need to add “church” to my Airbnb search field.
You shouldn't have to be the best at something or even good at it to claim to be an artist, writer, sculptor or crafts person. There will always be people telling you what you can and cannot be. If you are not hurting anyone ignore them and be yourself as hard as you can. Thanks.
Seconded for sure!!
Well, I too have struggled with calling myself an artist. For many years I concentrated solely on tiny crochet on doilies. You can't say I wasn't making lace. I took an art history class and the teacher asked what artistic pursuits we each had and I realized that my crochet was art. Since then I have changed my focus to quilting and modern clothing production for myself and my husband. Clearly quilting is an art, especially the way I have done it with some hand piecing, some machine piecing, and either home machine quilting or long stitch quilting by hand. So I'm an artist although my work is not anywhere near the technical level of yours and certainly has no historical value per se. Who knows, maybe in 100 years one of my quilts will be considered historically important, you never know LOL.
Hallelujah.... All hail everyone of you who ARE and agree that Kathy IS an Artist.
I think you gave me the answer I've been looking for. I needed to hear someone say "call yourself...(this)" and its made me feel a lot happier 😊
I love how you deep dive onto one big project and take such careful time and attention to the details of it! I used to feel self-concious calling myself an artist (I sew, knit, crochet, and embroider) but now I call myself an artist proudly. Art stereotypically seen as "women's work" is often devalued, or seen as simple/easy. So calling myself an artist is almost a political statement for myself 😂 my work takes a LOT of time, skill, and patience! Not everyone can do what I do! Not trying to sound superior, I certainly don't think of myself as superior to anyone/ any other artist, but sewing IS a skill that requires years of honing and I've encountered some people who seem to find that concept puzzling...😂 Right now I'm also working on a big embroidery project, making myself a traditional vyshyvanka / Ukrainian peasant blouse. My great grandparents immigrated from Ukraine and I'm trying to connect with my heritage.
I would love to see your blouse! My great grandparents immigrated from Ukraine as well!
That's why I like the term creator. People don't think but also engineering has its artistic side. It all gets down to the act of creating and a creative mind is an artistic mind.
What a beautiful life you have created for yourself here Cathy. How amazing to be in this place. To travel and embroider and do art in the most authentic way - the masterpiece of your life being so awe inspiring and on display for us all - that is an artist in my book.
I agree with you on the point if you call yourself an artist that you begin to see yourself that way. 💖🌞🌵😷
I tend to feel that I'm a crafter as I use other peoples pattern's etc. but I think artists are able to create or alter their own creations. However to each their own title. Your videos are wonderful thank you for all the work you do to bring them to us.
Thank you! I think you get to define it however you wish - but don't use it to put yourself down or feel "less than".
I think of it the same way! Artists make things of their own minds, I make things of other people's minds, mainly. I simply have no mind for aesthetic conjuring, so I get to have a great time making use of others ideas and bringing them to life!
Exactly. I thought that was an obvious thing, I am surprised that craftspeople would like to claim title who is only for creative people.
Anyone who produces these types of garments is an artist. Anyone who make anything that is created is an artist. The creation of a house dress can be concidered an art. You are that and so is anyone else. Love the work and the encouragement. Have fun doing what you love. Enjoy the process and be good to you. H😊ugs
Thank you Cathy Hay - you are an artist and by this video have inspired me to support a son who really is an artist in his own right. He is still young, but what he makes with his hands, mind and heart with all kinds of material truly is significant and of high quality. He has been acknowledged many times from other people...Today I shall invite him to acknowledge himself as being an artist and own to it.
An artist is someone who makes the time to be creative.....no matter what you create!. Creativity is one of the top branches from the Tree of Life. X
I'm not a sewer, per se, but I have followed you for quite a while because there is something very zen about the way you approach projects and talk about life and how to think of one's self. I greatly admire your work and sincerely thank you for the nudges of life encouragement you give. Be well, dear friend.
Because of all the hats I wear, I call myself a "One Person Wardrobe Department" . I design, draft, cut patterns and pieces, stitch and finishes, as well as research. I will also call myself an Experimental Antiquarian, with the other end of my life, the rest of historical domestic life. Absolutely love you Cathy, keep stitching.
Wow! Cathy, I'm just blown away by the timing of your conversation topics. I have made music for (mumble-mumble) years and could easily think of myself as an amateur trombonist, violinist, violaist. I also dabble with guitar, banjo, and other stringed instruments. For many (25-ish) years I was a part of patriotic musical group that put together a program for the public on the 4th of July. Recently an individual who regularly attended these programs over the years referred to me as an "Entertainer". At first I balked at that title, but on reflection I realized how accurate it was. My music did not have to live up anyone's standard of perfection in order to be entertaining, and if others found it entertaining, then I was, I am, in fact an entertainer. I have claimed that title! I AM an Entertainer! It has changed how I feel about myself, and how I look at my musical performances. I has been liberating in more ways than I anticipated and expected. It has prompted me to borrow (with permission) my wife's sewing machine and make a couple of things using some techniques I have only read about, including piping around the outer seams. We all can be, no, we all are artists of some type and should be willing to accept that, claim that title, as we create the art we create.
the french word for craftsperson is artisan/artisanne which shows how close craft and art are!
To me beautiful is a feeling and it is most certainly inspired by this work of artistry. I told a lot of people I'm not creative but I'm a great editor. I think it's because its so important to me to remember who/what/where/and when I am inspired. I find that to be a common occurrence with your channel. I am human and I love this.
Everytime I view your videos I’m so inspired. I’m a quilter and creator of beautiful things, oh, I said it. Feels so good. Thank you Cathy.
I have heard from several small business owners how -no matter how much they loved their business- it took over their life and took them away from other important things [i.e. family, kids, the actual craft] it takes a brave person to step away from what you have built and set 'the baby' free after all the work you put into it. It takes wisdom and strength to step away, hand it off, and watch it do it's thing from the sidelines. Good luck in your future endeavors, I can't wait to see where you go next.
I primarily call myself a quilter as these days I mostly make patchwork quilts, but in the past I did dressmaking and some costuming too. I have also used the term textile artist and also just plain sewer. Your embroidery is coming along beautifully :)
Art is something coming into being that has meaning for us, and the Artist brings into being here in the material world.
The drum sound as the eye of the needle pierces through the velvet! Scratches my brain good.
Yes I do call myself an artist full of creativity. And I haven’t thought twice about it. Who cares what people thing or say about you . They will do so anyway . As long as you feel authentic all is good 🤗
I've called myself a "fiber artist" for fifty years. Everything I craft with is either cotton, linen, wool or silk. My husband even bought me flax and woad seeds so I can make yarn and dye it especially for myself!
I added this video to my watch list about a year ago and today is the first time I got a chance to actually sit down and watch and the timing is very fitting. I couldn’t even admit to being creative to a friend a few days, felt that as it’s not something I regularly get to do then I didn’t deserve to call myself creative. The way we put ourselves down is crazy. I probably would have combusted had I dared to call myself an artist!
I think you're so right about calling oneself an artist. I say my daughter is an artist, but never myself. However, my husband says I'm an artist and where she inherited her skills. I call myself a quilter, a crocheter, a knitter, a handicrafter of all kinds.
This is so relatable. I am a graphic designer, illustrator and I also paint and do linocut a lot. I create things all the time. After years of struggle, I finally put the word artist in my mail signature. And everyday I feel like a fraud when I see it. There is so much work to do to reach proper self esteem.
Imposter syndrome is real! You are an artist xx
Catheeee! You artist, you! ❤❤❤
Thanks for banging this drum with me: we sooo deserve to call ourselves what we do/are regardless of whether we’re taking commissions, signing contracts, or simply Doing The Thing.
Thank you for your videos -- they are a beautiful combination of joy, peace, encouragement, and excitement. Thank you for taking the time to share with us.
Thank you so much for saying so, I appreciate that very much!
I’ve been a dance major, an art major, been to two photography schools, a pastry chef who sculpts cake, done stained glass, study piano, thrown clay, needlepoint, currently a rabid knitter, create costumes, have ideas for installations and have always said I dabble in crafts. I’m taking your advice, I’m finally an artist! ❤
I call myself a seamstress most days. I have other creative hobbies besides sewing. But when it comes to sewing in particular, I focus mostly on repairs, alterations and reworking. It's SUPER RARE for me to embark on a truly creative sewing project from scratch. But I sew all the time, even if it's just a simple sock darn or loose button. So, "seamstress" works for me. I truly love this velvet coat series. More than the project itself, I truly love everything you're teaching us about everything you've learned along the way. There's such bravery and strength in each of your videos. I'm here for this positive, forward-moving energy.
Watching you work is such a privilege and a delight. There's no rush, no shortcuts - just patience, superb craftsmanship, and the calm confidence of knowing it will take as long as it takes and you will get there. Every stitch is its own tiny work of art.
I think part of art is that it draws people in, makes them want to watch and admire someone's hard work, skill, passion, and talent. You are undoubtedly an artist, both as a seamstress and as an embroiderer, and also as a filmmaker and teacher. Your work inspires others and brings joy and wonder to people around the world. 💖
Thank you very much, how very kind!
I call it a mindset to be an artist. Its a mindset to want to create something that is beautiful, or makes a statement, or anything else you want your art to say. I consider myself to be an artist not only because I paint and do digital art, but even more so in my creative writing.
I just love the things you make even if someone else designed it the fact that you can recreate them takes a huge amount of talent and patience! Thank you for sharing the process with us.
I love the sens of freedom in Cathy's videos. I always feel very inspired after watching them. Thank you for your content and for what you're doing Cathy. Sending love and positive energy!
The beauty of unregulated titles used to self-identify, like calling yourself an artist, is that the only requirement is the audacity is give yourself the title. And being an artist certain does require a level of audaciousness.
Thank you for mentioning quilting! I am an avid quilter...have been for 10 years. My skill level has gotten me to the place where I consider myself something more than a "hobbyist." I've found a wonderful community (mostly grandmas) that wnat to pass down the craft (as you described it). My dream is to quilt full time as a vocation. I'm working on that dream, it just takes time.
Thanks for the update on the coat. You are doing great work!
your work is always so lovely! I'd love to get back into embroidery. my grandmother was teaching me when i was younger. she won a lot of competitions and fairs when she was younger. her work was beautiful.
I would 💯% say you are an artist! Of the highest caliber, my dear! Felt like I had magically stepped off at Hogwarts, on the 1st video I found of you, at the Royal School of Needlework! I never understood the enthusiasm of folks about Harry Potter movies, NOW, after finding you, I get it! I find you and your "artistry", fascinating! Thank you for sharing! 🌿💜❤️🤍🩷💛💚
I'm a maker. I'm much more interested in the craft, the production, than the emotion or the message. This is what, I think, differentiates me from an artist.
You ARE an artist! I love the way you encourage us all...
This video brings me excitement and joy! I'm also currently doing embriodery/ beading work on a similar size frame, 6ft × 3ft! I totally understand the endurance, hardwork, & concentration you're going through with this project. Most of my embroidery works take about 2-3 months to complete. Let's keep on pushing forward with our embroidery projects! 😁👍
I love this conversation! I usually refer to myself as a maker, but i was recently thinkig of myself more as a fiber artist. In the same way I've heard sculptors talk about seeing what the wood, or clay, or stone wants to be, I've started feeling that way towards cloth and yarn.
Cathy, you are a creative who is always an artist!
I've always considered myself an artisan rather than an artist. I do not get inspired I do not have ideas, I just love the process of making, but I believe it lacks originality. And I don't care. I'm just happy to be making things, enjoying the process. It was true when I was writing and it is true when I am sewing. And is the most true when I'm doing diamond paintings, there is absolutely no creativity in that.
Craft = using human skill to make practical or decorative things very well. Art= making things with no practical use, only communication, that add to the arc of the human intellectual and emotive narrative. Hobby= art or craft without revenue. As a failed Artist turned, Hobbiest, turned Craftsman these are my settled definitions. I am happy with Craftsman as an accurate title, even as a woman, but importantly as a human that makes things, very well. You Cathy I would say are a Performance Artist, on UA-cam. The things you make, you make very well, and you are also a Craftsman. It is the video that speaks to people’s minds and hearts about what textiles mean in our modern life in relation to our history.
Cathy, I like the way you encourage us to think of ourselves more in the way of what we want to be, so identifying with it and stretching our imagination to achieve more of it! I feel you are giving me permission to be more adventurous! Wonderful, thank you. ❤🎉😊
I call myself a singer and a musician. But you've made me think about other things. I would call myself a textile artist, as I knit, crochet, sew, embroider, and make all sorts of things. I am a singer, musician, and textile artist. I like that. Thank you!
I found this 'artist' question interesting. I was having the very same talk with my daughter just several weeks ago. We have our little room at our craft village and make toys, kids clothes, artworks etc to sell. We decided that we are artists, as we create artworks in yarns, fabric, clay. Some might disagree but I am happy with my new title. Dressmaker here means home sewn with a downturned nose. Crafter doesn't have much more to imply other than cheap and nasty. Thank goodness for tourists that give wonderful feedback and a very positive attitude and tons of joy, whilst actually buying our created hard work. I AM AN ARTIST...😊😊😊
When I started to listen to this video, I said: "She is such a beautiful/wonderful artist!" Surprise! Your talk was on "claiming the title -Artist= " Too funny. I dabble in all sorts of things. From Zentangle, to quilting, to making Dorset Buttons to..... I love everything I do. I do it for me. Nothing is sold. It gives me so much in return. Yes. I am an artist. There. I've claimed it. Thank-you for sharing your thoughts......and your artistic talent! -Angele 💝
I love the term 'creator', we create things! Or recreate things and even co- create things!
What I call myself depends on what I'm doing. I'm a cook, and a gardener, but when I'm in the studio, I'm a fiber artist. That covers whether I'm sewing, knitting, weaving, or anything I make with fiber.
I call myself a maker. Creativity is an important part of my life and expression but it’s a hobby that I squeeze in around my life. I follow other people’s patterns and modify them so I’ve never felt like a true artist. For me that means making it all from scratch.
I call myself an "artist" and a "scientist" regardless of whether I'm employed in either of those fields at the time.
I have learnt and can follow the process of both, and incorporate these in my personal projects.
Even though "art" is subjective- I think an artist is someone who creates something for the sake of creating something that typically isn't essential/funtional but desired. Most crafts evolved from creating something functional. For example you are creating a cape. In that regard, the sewing/assembling aspect would be a craft. But the embroidery isn't essential. (Unless it was to "doctor" a tear or hole.) Therefore it comes under the "Decorative ARTS" category. Of course, to me, art is truly ESSENTIAL. I also believe a craftsperson IS an artist. Think SHAKERS. Their "functional" band boxes are ART. Of course, I also think a Shepherd training a sheepdog is an ART. And watching a border collie drive a flock over a hill 200 yards away with the sound of a few well timed whistles is- a masterpiece. 😊
You ARE an artist when you express yourself through beauty. I am a passionate dressmaker and could not understand the ladies that talk about me as "the Mrs who helps me with my dress". She said she didn't want to say "dressmaker" so I would not be offended. I kindly told her dressmaking is an art of which I am very proud, that I am an artist and a creator, not some maid "helping with the dress".
I can't think of a better way to start the day than one of your videos Cathy.
It was difficult for me to embrace my creativity. With practice it's easier. Maybe one day I'll be comfortable calling myself an artist...
I think all that you do is an artform making you an artist, your current project is proof of that & coming along nicely. Absolutely love where you are staying.
You wear your glasses when you need them, I do. I like the idea of pockets for herbs, I would make them with tiny Velcro dots so I could change the herbs. The new class sounds interesting, anything I make needs adjusting.
I thought about it and I think I will call myself a crafter or craft person, maybe a Jill of all trades master of none kind of person. I love to learn new crafts. My grandma an mom thought me how to sew and crochet and embroidery. I love to draw and paint. I would love to try spinning and weaving, I made my own tablet weaving cards and I made a small flat loom to weave on. I want to make my own Inkle looms. At one time mom n I were heavy into macrame and pottery/ceramics, fun with clay and wheel and also pre-molded stuff. Owning a house requires fixing the house, repair n paint drywall, hang wallpaper, repair/replace trim, lay bathroom tile, put down wood flooring ect.. Over the years I learned woodworking basics, that progressed to making shelves n such. Mom and I also liked to refinish furniture. Then there’s all the other things, gardening and canning and household stuff. The universe threw a fork in the road (or maybe a monkey wrench) so I’m between jobs at the moment considering semi retirement so I have more time to craft things. Who knows what the future holds and what I can learn 😊
im a cosplayer since a few years now and for me this is my form of art, creating a character, acting like a character, sewing the costume, making the pattern, sometimes designing the whole outfit, and i call myself an artist
I visited the V&A last week and saw this coat for the first time. It's made seeing your re imagining of this even more interesting.
You have come so far in as much that you are so much happier. You are such a beautiful woman both inside and out. You are also most definitely an ARTIST ! I absolutely love watching and listening to you. GO GIRL !!!
Good question, never thought much about it. But i think i m a crocheter and artist cs I do crochet and embroidery. Great progress with the velvet.
Oh my goodness what a beautiful coat and progress! My Laptop and my iPad broke so I missed your channel for quite a while. I call myself an Artist cause I play Handpan and Monochord. Or making herbal remedies. Or cooking Jam from fruit when harvesting comes. Or drawing window color pictures or even drawing with pencils. Whatever comes to my mind and whatever I make time and rooms for.
Cathy the embroidery is looking beautiful, even the leaves you stitched without your glasses on. I think I am going to call myself whatever I feel like or whatever I am doing on the day, whether that is artist, craftsperson, couture dressmaker, costumer, etc., because I just don't have one label that can encompass all the things I do and make.
The green on purple is very satisfying. I remember there being some initial debate over the colors and I think what you've chosen is very nice.
I have been an artist for as long as I remember. In high school, I became a published poet because a few of my poems were published in our school's annual creative writing journal. In the last couple months, I have become a professional digital artist because I took my first paid commission and I'm working on my second. While I have been an artist for as long as I can remember, I was not confident enough to call myself one. I can now factually say that I am a professional artist 🥰
I'm looking forward to seeing the finished coat.
I love the way the leaves dance across the velvet. Cathy, you are an artist.
I am weaving old patterns - so i think the title crafter will apply, but i never saw or seen myself as one, thank you for your insight!!
Greetings Cathy, When someone says to me what gives you the right? I say, I have a degree and I am a retired Art Director. That seems to shut them up. But, Inside me, I feel I am a bit of everything mixed together (sewest, clothes maker, embroider, painter, quilter, airbrusher, and other mix media). Just like when you make a pie. Mix all the ingredients et Voila! You have an awesome pie! Be yourself. Happy Sewing 🪡
You’re not pretentious you are an artist. I’ve been creating all my life. As far back as I can remember all I ever wanted to do was “make stuff.” I wanted to go to college and study art but we couldn’t afford that so life happened. I retired from working finally and started spending a lot more time creating and I sold a few paintings. You’d better believe I’m an artist, I live and breathe creativity and I’m proud of it, I worked very hard to be able to finally do what I was meant to do all along, I define myself, I don’t leave that up to others, especially those who don’t know me. You’re amazing Ma’am, call yourself an artist all you want, I certainly see you as an artist.
I went to college to become a teacher. I was taught that whatever lessons, manipulatives, games, assessments, everything was to be original. No copying someone else’s work. It was challenging but I conducted my 30 year career that way and was very successful and fulfilled. Now that I am retired I have been teaching myself how to quilt. I look at patterns, and always create something similar always with my own twist. That is my way so I can claim it is my own. It is too late to change and don’t really have any desire to change. So I give myself permission to call myself an artist.
Can't wait to see how far you have gone. This is really cool!
Hi Cathy. I think I finally identified the lovely plant/flower/leaves on the coat!
Achillea millefolium or Yarrow. Apparently very popular as a medicinal herb back in the day. Am probably very late to the realisation but was excited it seemed so close to what you are embroidering.
❤
I know I never call myself a writer. Even though it's what I spend nearly all my free time on and it's what I love. Simply because I don't think I'm 'good enough' to call myself that. I'm not published, I've never finished writing anything, very few people have read what I've written.
But when I have to describe myself in the least words possible, the one that fits me the best; is writer. It says so much about what I'm like as a person and how my head works. I live 99% in my head, like I think most writers do.
I write and knit primarily, but I've also learned to sew, embroider, and (with my degrees/certifications) teach. I do believe teaching well is an art form, too. I generally refer to myself as "a creative."
As a child I only knew that I wanted to be an artist. I didn’t know what it meant other than creative in the highest form bringing beauty to the world. Today it hasn’t stopped but continues to expand. I am a co creator in art and beauty with god source. It’s what I do in every way as a walk through this realm. Thanking for doing and sharing as you do.
Yes, I am an artist. I might not be able to do very much at the moment but yes, I am.
You are also an artist.
Incredible. I cannot believe the location that you were able to reside in and do your work. Watching you makes me want to pick up an embroidery hoop once again.
You are absolutely an artist. Your work is so beautiful. I love watching your channel.
Cathy what you do is an art. embrace your talent and keep inspiring us. Your awesome 🙂
Cathy, YOU ARE AN ARTIST FOR SURE!!!♥️
I love this so much, Cathy. You ARE an artist. I have an entire book series from the late 19th-early 20th century titled, "The School of the Domestic Arts." The books cover everything from preserving fruit to embroidering underthings. Each volume is a tribute to the arts we have (mostly) collectively forgotten in our age of convenience. Every one of us can be artful in what we do, no matter what it is. You have always brought an artful touch to all your projects. Brava! (PS - I love to see you wearing those suspenders from our last Bath jaunt!)
i definitely think of myself as anrtist, and as a crafter, a knitter, a sewer, an embroiderer. simply because doing those things is an important part of who i am
You are an artist ! Your stuff is beautiful and the artistic flair you have is your own style.
I feel like I am a maker. I try to source the best materials possible by second resources (as much as possible) and try to make each piece something that I will love and will last me for a lifetime.
Side note, I noticed you and Lowana are wearing the exact same shirt in her picture, lol.
I love stained glass and you have chosen the best for it. Lucky lady.
I started with painting and drawing, added sculpting and carving, branched out into handyman stuff, added more variations of sewing and sculpting, and dabbled in jewellery, chain mail, and it really just keeps going. Atm, I'm doing goldwork, having finished some knitting. There's spinning and rug hooking waiting for attention too, and some garments half done. It never ends and I'm loving it. But am I an artist? At age 60 I still have zero community recognition. I always figured I needed that before I don the moniker. then I moved into a bus. I realized the bus was 85% art studio, really a rolling art studio with life support. Now I realize, I am definitely an artist. I always gave up a separate bedroom to make a studio, but I called it my workshop. Still, why do people think "artist" is some kind of borrowed glamour?
Yes! I give all of you permission to call yourselves Artist.
I am an artist, though I often qualify that as fiber artist (but not to diminish my pride in my work.) My permission came many many years ago from an elderly fiber artist friend. Not that I needed permission, but I thought I did. So here Am I, a crone, passing it on to you.
Why am I an artist? I am because I create beauty, fun and joy from bits and pieces that may not be considered beautiful on their own. I am a painter and a sculptor, though I paint and sculpt with yarn and thread and string and wire. I also observe and choose beauty in my life. In my clothes, in my home, and in the places I enjoy visiting
One who sells, is an artisan. A craftsperson. One who makes art is an artist. Both are artists, but one doesn’t require you to be making a product for anyone but yourself. It also doesn’t need to be what we’d normally think of as a product. Dance is definitely an art form. I’d even say the logistical juggling of these two embroidery frames is an art form.
Yes! You are an Artist! Claim it!
My therapist was the first person to call me an artist. For the longest time I wouldn't allow myself to see me that way, let alove voice it.
Nowadays I've been managing to call myself one just to myself or my partner, but it's a big step up for me!
I had this revelation at one point and I realized, I am an artist and fabric is my medium ❤