Teelah George

‘Theory of pearl’ presents six new, meticulously hand-embroidered textiles framed in unique bronze supports.

Renowned for her intricate stitchwork and textural depth, Teelah George’s latest works push the boundaries of textile as a medium, merging painterly abstraction with the labor-intensive craft of embroidery. In ‘Theory of pearl’, each piece is framed in cast bronze supports, transforming the relationship between textile and structure. No longer a passive border, the frame extends into the composition, pulling it beyond its surface and into space.

The title, ‘Theory of pearl’, reflects George’s years of practice and research, emphasising the necessity of contemplative time and labour in the creation of works. Much like the way pearls are formed—when a grain of sand enters an oyster and is alchemically transformed—George’s embroideries are built up slowly over time to create immersive, textural worlds.

Using thread, George captures ephemeral impressions—shadows, water stains, and the blush of a cheek—into poetic, abstract landscapes. These textiles function as large-scale, net-like assemblages, where layers of raised stitches create a sculptural monumentality. Their undulating surfaces and meticulous detailing demonstrate a fluid interplay of colour and composition, as intimate gestures coalesce.

Through ‘Theory of pearl’, George reaffirms her dedication to materiality and process, pushing the limits of embroidery to reveal its potential as both a storytelling device and a sculptural form. This exhibition offers a rare opportunity to experience the artist’s work at an ambitious scale, where textile becomes both a tactile record of time and a dynamic presence in space.

Source: Neon Parc, 2025