In this episode of NeedleXChange, I interview Niamh Wimperis, an embroidery artist and craft entrepreneur known for blending personal experience with traditional needlework techniques.

We trace her evolution — from early frustrations with artistic gatekeeping to discovering embroidery as both a personal refuge and a political statement. Niamh shares how lived experience, including chronic pain, has shaped her work, and reflects on projects like This Is Art and her collaborative blanket fort installation.

Timestamps:

00:00:00 - Introduction

00:01:40 – Navigating Artistic Passion and Financial Realities

00:03:44 – The Joy of Teaching and Community Engagement

00:06:42 – The Importance of In-Person Connections

00:08:38 – Craft Shows: A Platform for Growth