matthew cox: embroidered x rays

’embroidered x-rays’ by matthew cox all images courtesy matthew cox (above) ‘waterproof watches’ image © matthew cox

driven by the notion of redefinition, philadelphia-based artist matthew cox has created a body of work that combines the traditional medium of embroidery with plastic x-ray films. proportionally true to the body part being pictured, the injection of stitches often depict elements of flora in a dreamscape-like scenery. the wildly contrasting materials are together read as something new and different from their original purpose.

for cox, the practice of superimposing these two applications is also a comment on the ever-increasing presence of photography in contemporary art. by introducing a tedious and labour-intensive process into a medium that is quite often quick and instant, the embroidered x-ray prints represent a format of film that explores new ways of technique and representation.

‘orchid with crucifix’ image © matthew cox

‘wrapped wrist’ image © matthew cox

‘wrapped wrist’ – detail image © matthew cox

‘necklace with bouquet’ image © matthew cox

‘necklace with bouquet’ – detail image © matthew cox

‘banana’ image © matthew cox

‘blowing hair’ image © matthew cox

‘wading knees’ image © matthew cox

‘knee and daisies’ image © matthew cox

‘feet’ image © matthew cox

‘pigtails’ image © matthew cox

via wired