Explore the intricate world of goldwork embroidery with textile artist and educator Elnaz Yazdani. Originating from traditional practices that use metal threads to create ornate embellishments, goldwork techniques continue to inspire artists and makers across cultures today. In this workshop, Elnaz will guide participants through a variety of beautiful goldwork techniques from around the world, using experimental metal threads and materials to create a unique embroidered artwork.
The techniques learned can be applied to any cloth — perfect for personalising a gift or item of clothing with an extra special touch. Echoing the embroidered motifs in our exhibition Marcos Kueh: Smooth Sailing 一路順風, this session invites participants to slow down and enjoy the meditative process of working with metal and thread.
No prior experience is required, and all materials will be provided. The workshop is open to everyone and welcomes participants of all levels, including those studying or working in textiles, costume, or fashion.
This programme is part of esea ArtClub, supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund.
Places are limited, so please book in advance to secure your spot.
Elnaz Yazdani is an embroidery artist and educator based in Yorkshire. Elnaz is dedicated to sharing her textile skills and promoting the importance of embroidery as an art form for the future and for community wellbeing. Elnaz has taught embroidery throughout her community, within primary, secondary and higher education as well as community groups and organisations.
In 2020 Elnaz was commended for the teaching excellence award in embroidery via the Embroiderers Guild and became an Embroiderers Guild Scholar after the successful launch of her virtual embroidery school ‘Embroider Your Future’. In 2025 Elnaz was awarded an Master of Arts by Research in recognition of a programme of work entitled ‘Rethinking Embroidery: Connecting, Embellishing and Transforming Communities Through Embroidery.
Her practice explores ways of transforming traditional embroidery techniques through her choice of unusual materials; she is inspired by industrial, upcycled materials and the ways in which she can embellish, connect or transform these items through stitch to develop a surface or form. Her unique embroidery style has allowed her to work across exhibition, installation, fashion and jewellery since graduating from her BA at Manchester School of Art in 2014. Elnaz is available for workshops, talks, embroidery commissions, exhibitions and collaborative projects.