About​

A non-hierarchical approach to materials is a core value of Lithuanian artist, Ruta Malik’s, hand embroidery practice. There is a focus on the intrinsic physical qualities rather than giving prominence to an item’s perceived beauty or value.

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The artist believes that blending luxury with incongruous objects elevates the ordinary. With her innovative approach to materials, she places an emphasis on details and textures. Dried fruit skin, moss or rock are positioned together with metallic elements, such as gold threads, foil plates and beads. Ruta combines these with an assemblage of traditional embroidery techniques, with Goldwork being her favourite. 

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Her working process is often intuitive and reflects on the simplicity, yet complexity, of everyday life. Use of contrasting media and collage-making – a combination of different forms, textures and shapes – is prevalent in Ruta’s work, whether it’s on paper or fabric, and echoes her approach to combining a range of diverse materials.