Amnon, what is a sewn sketch?

 It's the technique I use to draw with a sewing machine. The thread, acting as ink, is black, and the white fabric serves as paper. As I sew, I move the fabric, similar to moving paper beneath a stationary pen, then I refine the created line into a sketch. Because of the technique's nature, the line is continuous, resulting in the entire sketch being composed of one line.

This technique is interesting for several reasons. First, the materials used for the sketch—thread and fabric—are typically associated with the world of embroidery. Additionally, sketching with this method encourages me to relinquish the complete control I usually have when using a pen. It's like  sketching with my non-dominant hand; the line isn't entirely predictable, resulting in an intriguing and less meticulous sketch.  The presence of 'mistakes' and a sense of humanity is added as a result.

Another aspect is the progression of the sketch. Unlike a traditional sketch where I begin with broad strokes and gradually add details, sewing requires me to focus on specific areas since revisiting to add details later isn't feasible. As a result, when I draw the right part of the picture, I'm uncertain about what will appear in the left side; and this development of the sketching process resembles storytelling.

How did you get involved in sewn sketches?

I already liked to use thread and needle during my military service, mainly to fix a vest or belt. In the years that followed, I had the opportunity to decorate clothes that had a stain on them with thread and needle. At the age of 27, I went on a two-year trip. At that time, I already had a set of embroidery threads and I would embroider on clothes and also on pieces of fabric that I would find. Later, I embroidered for clothing designers in all kinds of experimental projects. At the age of 30, I got a sewing machine from a friend and while playing with it, I started sketching with the machine.

Is there a specific style of embroidery that you specialize in?

Sewn sketch has become my main occupation and source of income. This is the main technique in my life and I continue to develop with it. I also embroider by hand from time to time, and even in hand embroidery I like to invent and innovate, so I consider myself an embroiderer as well.

What types of fabrics do you work with?

I usually sketch on a solid, thick canvas. I really like this material- It is simple, beautiful and strong. And it also serves me in terms of the final product.

What other types of embroidery do you practice?

The embroideries I create by hand vary greatly and often push the boundaries of traditional embroidery. Generally, I like  miniatures, where the use of thin thread and a needle fulfill my need for precision.

Do you also collaborate with other artists on joint projects?

Lately I've been embroidering texts and poems.I use the texts of poets, with their permission and during a joint conversation about the result. But I'm quite a soloist, and don't tend to collaborate much.

Do you incorporate embroidery into other forms of art as well?

I recall a few cases, as part of exhibitions. I got a clay cooking spoon made by a ceramicist, so I drilled a lot of holes in it and weaved through them.

Could you describe the demographics of your customer base?

Without differences of religion, race or gender. Everyone. I have small works at affordable prices, it's nice for me to approach everyone and be accessible to everyone who likes my work.

Are you selling online?

Yes. www.amnonlipkin.com/shop

Contact Amnon Lipkin:

Website: www.amnonlipkin.com

Instagram: @pashut.o