Han Cao, a Dallas-based self-taught fiber artist, weaves magic with her needle and thread. Her specialty lies in transforming vintage portraits and postcards into stunning mixed-media works. By adorning these found photos with intricate embroideries of florals and natural landscapes, she breathes new life into the past. Cao’s artwork invites viewers to engage intimately with distant strangers, creating their own narratives as they explore the unexpected textures and dimensions of her pieces.
Cao’s work transcends mere craft; it’s a bridge connecting generations, emotions, and stories. Her larger-than-life embroidered photographs reimagine personal and social histories, inviting us to reflect on identity, memory, and the passage of time. Whether it’s a windswept dreamer or a bouquet-clad sweetheart, each piece carries a delicate balance of nostalgia and innovation. So next time you stumble upon an old photograph, remember Han Cao’s artistry – where threads weave tales that span centuries.
My artwork aims to create modern narratives for found photos – connecting the people of the past with those of the present. I love the unexpected texture created from needle and thread, how it makes people become more intimate with the work when they discover the subtle dimension. This sudden intimacy invites viewers to create their own dialogue with these distant strangers, as they engage the artwork up close. The varied stories captured in my work reflect personal views on gender, relationships, and societal roles, explorations in connection in disconnection, and also my sense of humor.
Han Cao
More info: Website, Facebook, Instagram.
