Rebeckah Kemi of Embellished Talk, is a freelance textiles designer and creator of the beautiful embellished Claddagh bag (inspired by our Claddagh Ring).
How did your love for embellishing start?
I studied textiles at the London College of Fashion and my course primarily focused on printed textiles. There was a short segment on embroidery and beading which I really enjoyed. The tutor that ran the short course was so inspiring and helpful that it sparked a great interest in embroidery. After I graduated in 2007 I started to teach myself more by watching YouTube clips and buying lots of embroidery books. I also went to Selfridges and Liberty in London to look at designers’ clothing that have a lot of embroidery. I’ve been stitching for ages now and I love it!
What’s your go-to fave music to get you in the ‘work’ zone?
Normally I listen to podcasts when I’m working but sometimes I really want to zone out so recently I’ve been listening to Ariana Grande’s new album. My regular fave music is anything by Ari Lennox or Solange.
Do you have a particular piece you’ve made that feels special/stands out to you?
I really love the beaded sun face and claddagh pouches I made inspired by your jewellery. I love wearing jewellery even during the lockdown so it’s nice to be inspired by it to create some textiles.
Do you have a favourite gemstone?
I love rubies. Is that a gemstone? My birthstone is amethyst but red rubies look so special to me. I like emeralds too, I recently got married and thought I’d want a really elaborate colourful ring but I went for a diamond as it’s a classic. And the rest of my rings are quite statement pieces so I wanted something timeless. I never thought I’d be into diamonds but a good one is beautiful, especially when the light hits it.
Do you have any plans for once we’re out of lockdown?
Oh god, I can’t wait for us to all be safe from Covid. I want to see and hug all my friends. Spend a month in Sicily, some time in Ghana and Nigeria and explore Marseille. I basically want to go travelling with my family and enjoy good weather and food. I would love a break from being at home and washing dishes!
