It’s time for another edition of The Stitchuation and this month, we’re diving back into Bothy Threads and their wonderful pool of artists. We’re excited to take a closer look at the UK’s most popular published artist to date since 2018, Lucy Pittaway. But before we dive into the collection with Bothy, let’s find out a little more about how these kits came to be.
Behind The Brushstrokes
Lucy’s signature style has really enchanted stitchers and art-lovers everywhere, with her vibrant scenes illustrating more than just her talent over the years. Over different formats, Lucy’s art and themes have been inspired by personal events and serve as a somewhat snapshot to her. Although a well-known artist present day, her passion began many years prior. Her website explains:
Lucy graduated from Northumbria University with a degree in Graphic Design and embarked on a career as a designer before transitioning into lecturing at Darlington Technical College of Art and Design. At 30, driven by a desire to explore beyond the North East, Lucy left her job and travelled the world, eventually settling in South America where she taught English in Peru.
They continue:
“As fate would have it, a brief visit back to the UK led to a reunion with her childhood sweetheart, Neil. This unexpected encounter convinced Lucy to stay in Yorkshire. Lucy and Neil married and started a family, a journey that inspired many of her artworks.”
Her most current timeline of inspiration comes from the above, as themes of parenthood and renewal serve as the driving force for her creativity, currently:
The birth of twins in 2009 brought about a profound transformation in Lucy’s life as she embraced the challenges of parenthood. Her art began to include two standalone flowers symbolising her children. The colour palette shifted from deep, passionate tones to lighter, hopeful pastels, with pinks and soft shades representing the new journeys and rejuvenation that lay ahead.
Images via Bothy Threads and Lucy’s site.
Lucy’s works have now crossed over to homeware, stationery and greeting cards, yet thankfully for us all, her stunning art has been translated over to cross stitch and tapestry patterns by the folks at Bothy Threads. Let’s take a closer look at our current faves, this month!
A Family Affair
With family and parenthood leading the way for her inspiration, we thought we’d start with two kits that really encapsulate those themes perfectly, proving that those bonds are stronger than ever. Mum & Me sees a Ewe and Lamb sat among beautifully vibrant poppies, enjoying the sunshine. Content in one another’s company, Mum & Me offers an idyllic snapshot of a moment that may be more common than we think in reality.
Sat in the lavender fields at the foot of a mountain are a cute little family in Precious Moments, where two little lambs look to their parents with wonder, as their caregivers watch on with a smile, proving that their favourite view are their tiny offspring. There’s such exceptional colour work used here, translating Lucy’s work perfectly!
Herd All About The Views, Here
While Sheep are such a key feature within Lucy’s artwork, views and nature play such a part in their overall stories. Whether it’s the rolling clouds and florals in Ladybird In The Meadow, the autumnal tones around the river in Watching The World Go By, or the moment of pure peace in Love and Light, the picturesque vistas featured in these pieces really do stop you in your tracks. Yet it’s her interpretation of the Sycamore Gap that has really resonated with so many stitchers for so many different reasons.
The discovery of the 150-year-old felled tree near Hadrian’s Wall left so many devastated, as the site was a beacon of serenity, along with memories with loved ones. Deeply moved, Lucy created a pastel painting in its memory. As the artwork gained popularity, her company pledged a portion of sales towards reforestation, they state via their site. The Lucy Pittaway Sycamore Gap Trail was created in partnership with Swinton Estate, with their goal to plant over 2,000 appearing well underway, ticking off more than half of their goal already.
The Sycamore Gap kit has been incredibly popular since it landed within in the warehouse. Not only has the subject matter and view clearly stolen many crafters hearts, the details within the piece remind us just how special the site was. Using French Knots to illuminate the night sky for twinkling stars, the sheep take in the views of the historic site, as well as a visitor. A beautiful design to commemorate something that meant so much to many.
Ewe Look Sew Comfy
Who doesn’t love cosying up with a warm drink and a craft? We know we do! We’re loving these Tapestry Cushion kits featuring these playful designs! With blue skies shining, these sheep are having a blast in Funday, while the offered sunflower from a little one brings a smile in Just Because. Two really beautiful kits to make and keep or gift to someone who brings you joy. Whatever you decide, it’s clear either way that Lucy Pittaway’s artwork translates wonderfully well across many medias, and thank goodness for that!
(Please note: The above kits do not come with the backing kit or cushion.)
We hope you’ve enjoyed this month’s edition of The Stitchuation 🧵If you’re keen to keep up with what’s happening in The Craft Room, make sure to enter your email below to never miss a post from us ⬇️