Taiwanese artist Wen-Jen Deng showcases her unique blend of dyed embroidery and stitched soft sculpture to explore themes of cultural geography and history. Drawing inspiration from Taiwan’s rich cultural landscape and her global experiences from field research and residencies, Deng weaves indigenous motifs, food culture, and historical truths into her textile narratives. Through meticulously hand-dyed fabrics and threads, she creates a visual tapestry that reflects ecological observations and cultural exchanges. Deng’s work not only celebrates her Taiwanese heritage but also challenges traditional gender norms by embracing fiber art as a powerful form of self-expression within the contemporary art scene.
From June 6 to 28, art enthusiasts can experience Deng’s creations at the Tenri Cultural Institute in Manhattan as part of the exhibition The Embedded Stitch – Contemporary Fiber Art from Taiwan. The title of the show pays homage to Rozsika Parker’s seminal work, The Subversive Stitch (1984), which explored the historical significance of women and embroidery. In contrast, Deng’s art serves as a vibrant expression of modern Taiwanese identity, showcasing over two decades of work that celebrates the diversity and complexity of Taiwan’s cultural tapestry. While not explicitly feminist, her pieces delve into questions of identity, belonging, and cultural memory through the lens of craft and material.
In 2024, Deng embarked on a residency on Governors Island in New York, where she utilized indigo dye, soft objects, and intricate stitches to depict the island’s rich history and culture. Reflecting on her time in the city, Deng remarked, “I spent a brief month in New York last year and felt that it’s such a vibrant city — everyone seemed to wear a smile on their face. Perhaps it’s because immigrants from all over the world make up the majority of New York’s residents? The Big Apple is both nourishing and delicious!”
The Embedded Stitch, curated by Ming Tuner and Luchia Meihua Lee, offers a captivating selection of Deng’s fiber-based artworks that blend tradition with innovation, local knowledge with global dialogue. The exhibition runs from June 6 to 28 at the Tenri Cultural Institute in New York City.
Programming
- Panel Discussion: Friday, June 6, 3–5pm
- Featuring art critic Allison C. Meier, curator Irene Georgia Tsatsos, and scholar Thomas Van Dyke in dialogue with The Embedded Stitch artist and curators
- Opening Reception: Friday, June 6, 6–8pm
- Artist & Curator Talk and Exhibition Tour: Thursday, June 12, 2–4pm
To learn more, visit taac-us.org or dengwenjen.wixstudio.com.
This exhibition is made possible by the Ministry of Culture, Taiwan, and T-Content Plan, and is co-organized by the Taiwanese American Arts Council.
