In her captivating series titled “Obsolescence”, Swedish artist Ulla-Stina Wikander breathes new life into domestic objects from the bygone era of the 1970s. Wikander’s artistic process involves meticulously covering these everyday items in vibrant embroidery, transforming them into something entirely new and unexpected. The once-ordinary objects transcend their utilitarian purpose and become pieces of art, prompting the viewer to contemplate the ever-evolving nature of domesticity and the sentimental value we attach to familiar objects.
Wikander herself is drawn to the metamorphosis that occurs when she embroiders these forgotten relics. The splash of color and intricate stitching imbue the objects with a newfound vibrancy and personality. By elevating the mundane to the level of art, Wikander compels us to re-evaluate the significance of these objects in our lives and the stories they hold. The series not only celebrates the beauty of traditional craftsmanship but also sparks a conversation about nostalgia, obsolescence, and the enduring power of creativity.
I find it interesting to see how these objects transform in a new context; the obsolete, the things we do not want any longer, the old and forgotten things. They become artifacts from a begone era, disguised, camouflaged and dressed. I give them a second life and although I cut the embroideries into pieces, I think they look very beautiful, when they have been ‘dressed up’.
Ulla-Stina Wikander
More info: Website, Instagram (h/t: Designboom).
