The Protagonist Series: Hand-Embroidered Animal Tapestries
These hand-embroidered tapestries reimagine animals as the protagonists of their own worlds. Each piece combines traditional Zardozi, intricate beadwork, and layered threads on linen to bring nature to life, stitch by stitch.
"Horse in his Amber Field." This is the completed hand-embroidered tapestry, a tribute to the majestic and free spirit of the horse. The complex geometric background contrasts with the organic form of the animal, all rendered in detailed threadwork.
A tigress rendered in monochrome threadwork, set against a vibrant, geometric jungle. This piece from the Protagonist Series captures her quiet confidence and power. The fine embroidery allows for a level of detail that brings her intense gaze to life.
This is the "Mare in her field," a companion piece to the horse tapestry. The cool palette of blues and greens in the embroidery reflects her calm and royal nature. This work celebrates the sensitive yet strong leadership qualities of female animals.
It took six months of dedicated needlework to complete the "Mare in her field." This video shows the final piece, highlighting the delicate beadwork and the flow of the threads that mimic a painter's brushstrokes. My signature is embroidered in gold, a final touch to a labor of love.
My Protagonist Series on display at the Artistree Gallery in Dubai. This showcase featured the embroidered tapestries of the Tiger, Tigress, Horse, and Mare. Seeing them together on easels highlights them as true works of fine art.
Unveiling the "Tigress in her Jungle" tapestry. This piece is created on fine linen, and you can see how the light catches the different textures of the thread and beadwork. It's a piece that feels both powerful and delicate at the same time.
There is a deep connection I feel with each piece. My hands trace the lines of the tiger, feeling the texture and the energy that went into its creation. This is a moment of gratitude for the journey of making this embroidered artwork.
About this collection
Because each tapestry is a blend of painting and high-density hand embroidery, I only take on a limited number of commissions each year. It takes me about three to six months to complete a single piece, as I layer Zardozi, silk threads, and glass beads to capture the specific energy of the animal. If you are looking to commission a piece, we should start with a conversation about your space and the story you want the work to tell.
My Protagonist Series is born from a desire to give animals the space and dignity they deserve, free from human intrusion. When I approach a new subject, whether it is a tigress or a horse, I start by mapping out the composition with acrylics on pure linen. This acts as the foundation for the heavy hand-embroidery that follows.
I use traditional Zardozi techniques, historically reserved for festive couture, to elevate the texture of these animals. By incorporating glass beads and silk threads, I create depth that catches light differently throughout the day. Because these pieces are textile-based, I insist on professional box framing with UV-protective glass to ensure the integrity of the beads and the vibrancy of the threads remain for years to come.
Every piece comes with a detailed dossier that explains the motifs and the specific embroidery techniques used, making it more than just decor; it is an heirloom. Since the process is entirely manual, the timeline is not flexible. I prefer to work with clients who value the slow process of creation as much as the final piece. If you have a specific animal in mind or a story you wish to capture, we can discuss the conceptualization phase during our initial consultation.
Pragya Jain
I am an artist who believes art should not be a sprint. My studio in Bangalore is where I combine my love for Indian heritage with modern, narrative-driven art, spending months on a single embroidered piece. I do not just make art; I help you tell your own stories through threads, paint, and textiles.
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