“It is very humbling to be chosen for special commissions as it means Fine Cell Work has trust in me to do a good job. I am proud to contribute.
The tiny details stitched with only black and white on black and white were demanding on both fingers and eyes. Also being so large, progress seemed hard work. However, when I finished it I felt pride – the greater the struggle, the greater the sense of achievement… and relief! Trying to maintain intricate detail and good quality stitching of the people, especially faces, was the trickiest part.
I have stitched many elaborate works and special commissions for FCW. The stitching on this piece may look easy but it has been one of the most difficult pieces to create in both labour and mental motivation. The artwork is evocative, portraying the struggle on refugees' faces. The details were so very tiny.
Fine Cell Work has impacted my life in prison beyond measure. It has been a financial crutch - sending my family money and gifts would be impossible without earnings from my stitching. I spend my time productively making something that means a difference for good in the world and I take pride in completing projects.”
- Andrew, Fine Cell Work Stitcher