A Story of Transformation
Palingenesis is a 3D embroidered moth created by Eliza as her graduate final piece at the Royal School of Needlework. Measuring 1 meter in wingspan, the work is inspired by fantasy and explores transformation in both nature and material, drawing on the story of Cinderella. It reflects Eliza’s interest in giving new life to discarded or pre-loved materials through textile art. The piece won The Hand & Lock Prize for Embroidery 2022 in the Student Textile Art category.
Eliza designed the moth by combining features from the Peach Blossom moth and the Lime Hawk moth to create a new hybrid creature. Botanical motifs, such as roses and apple blossoms, are embroidered onto the wings to represent renewal and growth.
The moth was made using techniques including silk shading, goldwork, raised work, canvas work, and beading. Reclaimed lace was stitched into the structure to support the theme of transformation. Second-hand clock parts were added as embelishment, symbolising the importance of time in both environmental cycles and the Cinderella narrative.
Eliza’s influences include the Fantastic Beasts: The Wonder of Nature exhibition at The Natural History Museum, as well as artists such as Mr Finch and Annemieke Mein. Their imaginative approaches to nature helped shape her vision for Palingenesis. The final piece brings together sculpture, storytelling, and fantasy within textile art.
For any enquiries about using this piece as a prop, display item, or feature within an installation, please get in touch via the contact form.
