The present project arises from the need to preserve the artisanal technique of Madeira Embroidery, a technique that is part of the history of Madeira Island since its colonization and was one of its main industries for several decades. Currently, the production of Madeira Embroidery is facing a crisis, with several factories closing their doors and the number of embroiderers decreasing.
Craftsmanship is representative of the identity, wisdom, history and culture of a particular nation, thus becoming a key element for studying and understanding the way of life and evolution of a particular community. Considering its importance in society, the use of crafts for various social purposes and interdisciplinary projects is becoming more frequent. In this way the preservation of Madeira Embroidery is relevant.
Developed in several phases, this project started with a research of information about the Madeira Embroidery (its history, characteristics and industry). Subsequently, through an active investigation, the Madeira Embroidery was studied in greater depth from an internal perspective, in direct contact with several people in the industry and learning personally the various phases of its production.
With the aim of promoting and preserving the Madeira Embroidery, the investigative process resulted in the development of a capsule of five women’s embroidered shirts, each embroidery design representing an existing situation of the industry.

Photography | Aly Freitas

Models | Elisa Silva

               Mariana Pita