In this relaxed Q&A session, you’ll hear directly from the internationally acclaimed artist about her extraordinary collaborative embroidery project, her creative practice, and the stories stitched into The Red Dress.
Over tea and cake, gain deeper insight into the making of this remarkable work, the global communities who contributed to it, and the ideas that continue to shape Kirstie’s practice. There will be plenty of opportunities to ask questions and join the conversation.
This welcoming experience offers a unique opportunity to connect more deeply with The Red Dress, hear the stories behind its creation, and engage with the artist whose vision brought this extraordinary work to life.
Kirstie Macleod has been an artist for over 20 years, and for the last 16, she has dedicated herself to The Red Dress—a global tapestry of connection and expression. What began as a sketch on the back of a napkin in 2009 has blossomed into a worldwide collaborative project, touching thousands of lives across continents.
Growing up in diverse corners of the world, Kirstie’s early years were rich with contrasting cultures, colours, languages, and experiences. In her quest to make sense of her journey and shape her own identity, she turned to drawing, painting, and sewing as her language of expression.
Textiles were woven into the fabric of her upbringing. The women in Kirstie’s family were skilled stitchers, knitters, and makers, so it was only natural that she too would pick up needle and thread. She later earned a BA in Textile Design and an MA in Visual Language & Performance, launching her career as a fine artist in London. Her diverse portfolio spans photography, film, painting, drawing, and high-impact installations involving garments.
Embroidery soon became her focus. Kirstie was captivated by its diversity and potential for expression, communication, and even subversion. As she delved deeper, she discovered its rich history and practice around the world—as an art form, a part of daily life, and a meditative, healing practice. A pivotal moment came in 2002, when Kirstie travelled to southern India and spent hours stitching alongside Karnatakan Lambani women. Though they couldn’t speak the same language, they connected deeply through the shared act of stitching. Some of the embroideries from that trip now grace The Red Dress, honouring the seeds that inspired its creation.
