Frequently asked questions
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Welcome to my world of hand embroidered fine art where I hand stitch images that celebrates our internal landscapes and maternal experiences.’
Commissioned by anyone from enthusiasts to medical professionals, my embroideries are intricate, anatomically correct and always start a conversation.
I stitch for the love of embroidery and science but also to challenge perceptions around graphic medical images, when science meets art, why we fear our own anatomy and what we expected from a traditionally female skill. In short, I’m asking viewers to observe what scares them but through the safe and familiar lens of traditional stitching.
As a self taught hand embroiderer based in south Wales, my pieces now reside all over the globe. In 2022 I won five awards from the Institute of Medical Illustrators and three further awards in 2023. My work has been featured in magazines, books and podcasts. You can check them out here on my My Work on Show page.
How do I commission a piece of anatomical art?
Contact me at cath@cathjanes.com to start the process, telling me what you’d like me to stitch. You can do this even if you don’t have a clear idea of what you want. I’ll ask you a few questions to bring your idea into focus, you can tell me what you want from the piece and when we’re happy I’ll give you a definitive price. That’s when you’ll decide whether to go ahead and I can get you in my order book. Easy!
How much does it cost to buy your art?
That depends on the size and complexity of what you want. My prices start at £450 plus postage. I’m happy to bash about ideas until I can give you a definitive price for your design. Check out my anatomy hoops to get an idea of previous prices and contact me with any questions.
How and when do I pay you?
I always ask that you pay the full amount before I start stitching a piece and usually via Paypal although I am happy to chat about the options that suit you. Just ask when you contact me about your commission idea.
How long is the wait for a piece of anatomical art?
That depends on both my current order list and the size and complexity of your piece. Previous wait times have been anything from six weeks to one year! So contact me the moment you know you want to commission me, especially if it’s for a specific date such as a graduation or birthday. I’ll then let you know what’s possible.
Do you sell your designs on other items?
I certainly do. Check out my Etsy Shop here where I’m always growing my range. Right now it includes my giclee prints and outrageously popular vinyl stickers but if you want something that you can’t find feel free to let me know. I might be able to make it happen.
Where can I find out more about how you work?
Your first stop is my FREE monthly Hot off the Hoop newsletter). That’s where I give subscribers the behind-the-scenes action, latest info, new products and a look at work in progress. If you want even more geeky detail about how and why I embroider anatomy you can find it right here.
Can I interview you or use your images in my publication?
Of course! I’m an ex-freelance journalist and, as a textile artist, I’ve done many interviews for publications and podcasts. It means I know how the process works, can talk engagingly about my work and I can hit your deadline. Just contact me by email with your request. As for images, let me know how and where you want to use them to start the discussion. You can check out my previous publicity here .
If you like my art and you'd like to commission an original piece then please contact me by email to discuss what you'd like.
If you would like to buy an unframed giclee print which perfectly captures my original workplease visit my Etsy Store where you will see which pieces are available, the price and delivery details.
If you'd like some of my weatherproof vinyl stickers to put somewhere interesting they too are available on Etsy.
© Cath Janes
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