Louise Saxton – Red Cross Mask: Care and Protection

“Using vintage linen and a free downloadable pattern I created a series of three facemasks. Each mask was embellished in my ‘signature reclaimed needlework style’ with vintage embroidery from my collection. The embroidered motif’s used for each mask were selected for their symbolic meaning:

I chose dramatic vintage embroidered butterflies, gifted from a friend, for the first mask, as butterflies represent rebirth and recovery in many cultures.

For the second mask I used large embroidered opium poppies, which I collected in France a decade ago. As opium is a vitally important medicinal substance (when used in the clinical care setting) it represents relief from pain and suffering.

The third mask is embellished with many small, embroidered red flowers, which gather into the form of a large Red Cross. This internationally recognized symbol represents the care and protection given to millions of people throughout the world, in our every day lives and at times of crisis such as this.

Embroidery and lace have often been regarded as “simply women’s work” and the task of my practice over many years has been to challenge this denigration. My masks for this project represent the handwork and lives of generations of women who work at home, behind the scenes to care and protect our families; on the front line as health and support workers and; in the community as volunteers. The materials I have used to create this series of facemasks, both on the decorative exterior (linen and embroidery) and the breathable interior, (muslin, silk or cotton toweling) reflect the lives and dedication of women in both the domestic and clinical setting.” -Louise Saxton

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“These masks were made from vintage linen offcuts and embroidery, collected and extracted from doilies, tablecloths and tray-cloths. Stitched together with love, care and painstaking labour, they reflect the care and commitment of those working on the front line during the COVID19 pandemic. A drawstring carry bag, to hold the masks on their journey, was made from vintage Damask and embroidery.” (If all three masks by Louise Saxton are Purchased together, you will receive the carry bag) – Louise Saxton