In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Owen Kelly.

Owen is a fifth-generation embroiderer whose vivid, hand-stitched works blend folk art, cultural symbolism, and personal narrative — all anchored by a lifelong love of textiles and storytelling. In this first part of our conversation, Owen shares his early love of stitching, memories stitched into denim, and how his family history shaped his lifelong relationship with embroidery. It's a journey through punk rock, biker jackets, and the moving legacy of his 'memory skirt'.

Timestamps:

00:00:00 - Intro

00:01:25 – The Joy of Creating: Quilts and Feedback

00:04:16 – Maximalism in Art: Embracing Complexity

00:09:53 – The Grand Poobah: A Stitching Ambassador

00:16:32 – Introducing Seamus O'Commonsey: The Traveling Puppet

00:22:34 – Cultural Connections Through Creativity

00:28:33 – The Role of Music in Life

00:44:10 – Navigating the Music Industry

00:46:58 – The Influence of Music on Art

00:51:04 – Literary Inspirations and Favourites

00:54:50 – Cinematic Memories and Influences

00:59:20 – The Hidden Talent of Table Tennis Coaching

Links:

Instagram: slavetothestitch

Intro music is Silly Simon by TAGE 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: https://www.needl.exchange/

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

If you're looking for modern cross stitch designs, then XStitch is the magazine you need!

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