Sewing Circle, 2023

Drawing on the folk tradition of church kneelers, Burton held several sewing circles in the run-up to her RCA degree show to support her project: The Passing of the Pomegranate Bell. An unsung folk art of England and Wales, church kneelers traditionally depict local concerns and interests, such as plants, wildlife, Biblical stories and local landmarks. Kneelers are cross-stitched by members of a local congregation and then donated to the church to be used during personal prayer. To honour this tradition, the women present at Burton’s sewing circles share the same religion and hold an interest in feminist theology. Together they embroidered each kneeler while partaking in the act of communion. That is, sharing their intimate thoughts and feelings on spiritual matters.

Photos by Kenya Carroll