In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Manuela Caniato.

Manuela is an Italian-born textile artist and educator now based in Belgium, with a background in linguistics and fashion history.

In this first half we talk about her journey from advertising to academia, her teaching in both Italy and Belgium, and how fashion functions as a language of identity. She reflects on the symbolic power of clothing, heirlooms, and shoes, as well as visible mending and the ongoing challenge of fast fashion.

Timestamps:

00:00:00 - Introduction

00:01:30 – The Intersection of Linguistics and Fashion

00:05:45 – The Language of Fashion and Identity

00:10:17 – Fashion's Symbolic Power and Social Commentary

00:14:42 – The Impact of Fast Fashion and Sustainability

00:19:11 – Decadence and the Transience of Beauty

00:28:07 – Anarchy in Art: The Evolution of a Textile Artist

00:33:46 – Fashion Perspectives: Italy vs. Belgium

00:35:33 – The Evolution of Textile Arts

Links:

Website: manuelacaniato.com

Instagram: manuela_caniato

Intro music is Easy Breezy by Boogie Wheel via Epidemic Sound.

About NeedleXChange:

NeedleXChange is a conversation podcast with embroidery and textile artists, exploring their process and practice.

Hosted by Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers, it is an in-depth showcase of the best needlework artists on the planet.

Visit the NeedleXChange website: needl.exchange

Sign up for the NeedleXChange Newsletter here: bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNews

If you want embroidery inspiration and regular doses of textile art, visit the Mr X Stitch site here: mrxstitch.com

If you're looking for modern cross stitch designs, then XStitch is the magazine you need! Find out more here: xstitchmag.com

And follow Mr X Stitch on all the usual social media channels!

• Facebook: mrxstitch
• Instagram: mrxstitch
• Pinterest: mrxstitch
• YouTube: mrxstitch
• LinkedIn: mrjamiechalmers