The well symbolizes my connection to heritage, particularly the cherished well rooted in my maternal lineage. The textile heritage of the Icelandic nation is defined by the hours spent by women mostly to work on their textiles in various forms – adorning themselves and their loved ones, as well as enhancing the aesthetic appeal of their surroundings. This reservoir of inspiration, another metaphorical well, provides a rich source of textures, colors, and palettes that resonate with my own well. Over the years, through my endeavors and education, I have been filling this well with a blend of influences from diverse origins. This amalgamation, sourced from different channels, ultimately springs from the universal well of humanity – a repository of knowledge and experiences passed down through generations and across lands. The essence of the well lies in achieving a harmonious balance between the old and the new, facilitating a meaningful connection with our heritage.

Icelandic Nature has always been a constant source of inspiration for me. Be it the color palette, shapes or surfaces. In my previous work embroidery has been my main medium, in this work I am exploring the process of digital weaving as a technique. The pattern stems from pencil drawings of the subject which I then translate into abstract patterns and textures. In the weaving process, a three color mix creates a new kind of color range.  Proximity and distance from the Elements is a theme I like to deal with in my weaving pieces.

Installation of six sweaters - sketches of monotone color, shape & texture

The development of my embroidery started with using the sewing machine as a drawing tool. Creating abstract patterns with feehand drawing on a sewing machine. Working within the shape of the garment.  I would use a rounded hoop and place it under the needle and start embroidering. For few years I would do everything manually then later I started using industrial embroidery machines and computerize my patterns. 

From my private exhibition "Another place - Another time"  The exhibition had four groups of work. 1: Dresses floating in the air. Each dress has the same shape, made from different fabrics. The textile work on each dress is executed on the shape like a painters canvas. Different textures and embroidery, freehand, with computer, paillettes, cut-outs. 2: I moved my complete atelier into the exhibition space and worked each day of the exhibition, a living performance.  3: A self portrait. A embroidered sofa and a picture, self portrait with me sitting in the sofa, dressed in a suite from the same fabric. 4: Love runs in the family, a second serie of family photographs of ladies wearing my designs.

Photo Series shot in Mosfellsdalur - Path of Love collection - all one of a kind - piece unique. Photos by Benni Vals

Path of Love collection shot in Paris in 2004 -  photos by Icelandic photographer Benni Vals