"My practice is based on the belief that objects have a physical memory and that handmade textiles; embroideries, lace and crochets absorb an ‘essence’ from their creators.
I collect old, often damaged, handiworks from flea markets and charity shops from across the World. I feel that the time and skill spent making them should be honoured and appreciated also today. My intent is to give these works and their creators a respect and a relevance in the contemporary world.
I cut, construct and sew the materials together, creating larger wall-hangings and installations. The act of sewing by hand - piercing the fibers, allows me to create both a physical and an emotional bond with the textiles, a connection between their origins and the today.
While recovering from a major surgery some years ago I started going through my collection of vintage handiworks. I could feel a sense of comfort through them. They’re a testament to skill and perseverance. Working with the pieces became a beautifully significant and meditative process. I was mending them while mending myself.
This personal project has evolved into a much larger project of rescue. I receive many donations. I bring these the handiworks; the flowers and their creators together and give them a new life to flourish in."
-Heidi Hankaniemi
On the artists' request, a portion of all sales are donated to a Women’s Charity Organization (The Retreat) in New York.