Blackwork Embroidery

So, I decided to go and browse blackwork for inspiration :)

Here is how shading is achieved using one particular pattern. Blackwork uses an even thread count, and stitches go between the threads, so you're basically working on a grid, and using any variants of grid based patterns.

In this case the thickness of the thread has also been varied to create bolder outlines and a greater variation of shading. Patterns are used to define areas and create textures, as well as look decorative of course! 

I really like this fish design as it has a much more free-form feel to it, despite the precise technique. In fact, it is only partially blackwork, as you can see samples of other kinds of freehand stitch in there as well, such as feather stitch and chain stitch. I love the random patchwork effect of patterns, as it can be viewed as a big picture, or you can take your time to explore individual details. Time is like this too. The rich tapestry of life! Everything layers up to create a whole, giving it a depth no element has on it's own. The church I belong to reckons that heaven is always changing and evolving so the angels don't get bored, because if it was possible to be bored, it would no longer be heaven and "perfect". It would also mean they would be unable to move forward in anyway, because everything would be on repeat, so it'd be as good as being trapped. I don't explain it well, but I can fully subscribe to that. Variety is the spice of life, and it is an accumulative thing. It builds up. If it didn't, and everything hit us at once, we'd be overwhelmed and unable to appreciate any of it. We need to be guided through it, but without perhaps we aren't truly free.

I think this peacock is great with the subtle additions of colour. Blackwork is sometimes exceuted in other dark colours as well as black, and the green and gold really set the black off here. It's interesting how much this design looks like it's been pixelated on a computer because of the scale, for me the image is torn between being terribly traditional and yet really modern somehow.

This one achieves curves and flowing lines despite being made up of geometrical patterns and straight lines. It also has a vaguely Japanese feel due to the circular flowing abstract design.

The range of effects achieved here are amazing. The artist has somehow created soft and hard outlines (some of the image has a stitched outline, some relies on the end of the patterned area to create an outline), blending, and a really distinct form to create a perfect renaissance effect. This way you could create any kind of image purely out of pattern, similarly to how pixels do.