In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Helen Adams.

Helen is the Textile Curator who has been shining a light on contemporary textile art on her terrific blog since 2014. Her fantastic book, Textile Fine Art was published in September 2025.

In this first part of our chat we talk about making a textile art book that lasts longer than algorithms, how you choose artists when everyone is good, and what kinds of work genuinely “buzz your buttons”.

We also get into exhibitions and the pressure of doing textile art justice in major spaces, including Saatchi, plus the practical logistics of hanging work properly.

Helen is curating a show at Saatchi Gallery! Textile Art Redefined runs from April 10th - May 10th which is a must-see if you're in the vicinity.

Timestamps:

00:00:00 – Introduction

00:03:40 - Helen’s career shift from fashion to textile curation

00:05:45 - The inspiration behind her publication and showcasing textile artists

00:08:06 - Curating at Saatchi Art: the process and challenges

00:13:41 - The importance of art galleries and Helen's vision for a textile hub

00:17:45 - The recognition of textile art in the mainstream art scene

00:21:50 - Challenges of managing art spaces and exhibition logistics

00:25:46 - The significance of personal relationships with artists

00:30:05 - The creative process and inspiration behind textile projects

Links:

Instagram: textilecurator

Website: textilecurator.com

You can get a 20% discount on Helen's book with free shipping from the Lawrence King website until April 9th using the code MRXSTITCH at checkout.

Intro music is U Dirty Dawg by Def Lev via Epidemic Sound.

About NeedleXChange

An artist interview podcast exploring contemporary embroidery and textile art. Hosted by Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers.

Stay Connected

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mrxstitch.com | xstitchmag.com

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In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Iskren Lozanov.

Iskren Lozanov is an embroidery artist living in Ibiza, originally from Bulgaria. He came third in the 3d Textiles category of The 2025 Mr X Stitch Contemporary Needlework Prize and 2nd in the Open Textile Art category in the 2024 Hand & Lock Prize.

We pick up with what’s next for Iskren Lozanov’s practice, including using everyday objects, collaboration hopes, and how this technique can be applied to almost anything. We also get practical about making a living, brand work vs artwork, staying well, and end on favourites plus a brilliant Spice Girls fact.

Timestamps:

00:00:00 – Introduction

00:01:20 - Future directions: exploring everyday objects and collaborations

00:03:05 - The freedom found in upcycling and working with found objects

00:06:59 - Balancing slow fashion and original art

00:09:34 - Sharing favorite books and cultural influences

00:13:56 - Music’s role in Lozanov’s creative process

00:17:22 - Favorite films and how storytelling influences his art

00:18:36 - Bulgarian folklore, fairy tales, and cultural motifs

00:19:22 - The acceptance of men in embroidery and needlework communities

00:21:24 - A fact that not a lot of people know about Iskren Lozanov

Links:

Instagram: iskrenlozano

Website: iskrenlozanov.com

Intro music is Cyber Bazaar by HATAMITSUNAMI via Epidemic Sound.

About NeedleXChange

An artist interview podcast exploring contemporary embroidery and textile art. Hosted by Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers.

Support on Patreon

Join the Green Room for weekly aftershows, monthly Q&As, and searchable transcripts.

Become an Executive Producer to join quarterly roundtables and shape the show's future.

patreon.com/c/xstitch/membership

Stay Connected

needl.exchange | Newsletter: bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNews

mrxstitch.com | xstitchmag.com

Social: Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | YouTube | LinkedIn

In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Iskren Lozanov.

Iskren Lozanov is an embroidery artist living in Ibiza, originally from Bulgaria. He came third in the 3d Textiles category of The 2025 Mr X Stitch Contemporary Needlework Prize and 2nd in the Open Textile Art category in the 2024 Hand & Lock Prize.

We talk about language and identity, Ibiza as a place to make work, and how Iskren Lozanov’s practice moved from fashion into embroidery and sculptural pieces like “Rebirth” and “Veil of Transcendence”, including the research, planning, and labour behind them.

Timestamps:

00:00:00 – Introduction

00:01:20 - Growing up in Bulgaria and cultural influences

00:05:42 - Moving to Ibiza and what draws him to the island

00:08:56 - Lozanov’s artistic journey from fashion to sculpture and embroidery

00:11:55 - Primitiveness and beauty in Lozanov’s work, blending ancient symbols with contemporary techniques

00:18:27 - The 'Veil of Transcendence' and exploring cultural afterlife symbols

00:23:05 - His experience in art competitions and building confidence

00:24:59 - Navigating social media and creating sustainable art practices

00:34:26 - The impact of learning and personal beliefs on his views of the afterlife

00:37:46 - Techniques inspired by Orthodox and Catholic iconography

Links:

Instagram: iskrenlozano

Website: iskrenlozanov.com

Intro music is Cyber Bazaar by HATAMITSUNAMI via Epidemic Sound.

About NeedleXChange

An artist interview podcast exploring contemporary embroidery and textile art. Hosted by Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers.

Support on Patreon

Join the Green Room for weekly aftershows, monthly Q&As, and searchable transcripts.

Become an Executive Producer to join quarterly roundtables and shape the show's future.

patreon.com/c/xstitch/membership

Stay Connected

needl.exchange | Newsletter: bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNews

mrxstitch.com | xstitchmag.com

Social: Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | YouTube | LinkedIn