Radhika Vyas has stitched her way through life’s ups and downs. Her love for embroidery began in childhood, paused for years, and then returned as a form of meditation and healing.
What kind of creative things did you love doing as a child? Were you the kind of kid who was always making something?
Yes, as a child, I loved embroidery, sketching, and craft projects. I studied in a small village school where we sat on floor mats (tat pattis) instead of benches, and sometimes rainwater even dripped from the roof.
In spite of such simple conditions, we had embroidery periods, and those humble beginnings sparked my lifelong love for the craft. I was always happiest when creating something with my hands.
Can you remember the first time you realized that making things made you feel different — proud, calm, or just happy?
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I was about 14 when I made my first embroidery. Recently, during Diwali cleaning, I found that very piece after so many years. Holding it again was nostalgic and reminded me how embroidery has always given me calm and joy.
Was there a family member, teacher, or friend who noticed your talent early and encouraged you to keep creating?
My mother was very skilled in embroidery and noticed my interest early. I learned a lot from her. Recently, my yoga teacher also encouraged me by saying, “You do this so well!” That simple compliment gave me the courage to share my work with others. Until then, I mostly created quietly in my room, but her words inspired me to bring my art out into the world.
Looking back, how do you think your childhood shaped the way you create now?
My childhood gave me patience and curiosity.
Spending long hours with threads and needles shaped my love for detailed, mindful work. But there was a long gap of almost 15 years when I could not do embroidery, as after marriage I was part of a joint family of 12 people and had many responsibilities. Later, when my son grew older, I found the time and courage to return to my passion — and it felt like reconnecting with an old friend.
What was your first “breakthrough” piece, the one that changed how you see your work?
A night-scene deer embroidery was my breakthrough piece. It was very challenging with its shading and details, but completing it gave me new confidence.
Where do you get inspiration for your pieces?
From nature, culture, and emotions, and also from many contemporary embroidery artists like Laura McGarrity, whose creativity inspires me deeply. Seeing the work of such artists motivates me to keep exploring new ideas in my own journey.
What has been your most challenging piece so far?
The deer night-scene — capturing the mood and details in thread was tough, but rewarding.
What advice do you wish someone had given you when you were starting?
Don’t rush. Enjoy each stitch. Patience will bring beauty.
What does embroidery mean to you?
For me, embroidery is much more than art — it is meditation, rescue, and healing. Most of my pieces were created while I was in pain during PCOD and difficult periods.
Stitching helped me forget the discomfort and gave me calmness, strength, and positivity. Embroidery has always been my way to heal, to stay strong, and to create beauty even in moments of struggle.
Interview posted October 2025
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