See No Evil, Hear No Evil, Speak No Evil
See No Evil, Hear No Evil, Speak No Evil
A contemporary triptych created using Elaine Foster-Gandey's signature cut-through embroidery technique on up-cycled fabric.
Inspired by the Japanese proverb of the Three Wise Monkeys, the work reimagines the three figures as Mary Magdalene, Eve and Lilith—women whose stories have been interpreted and retold throughout history. By cutting through layers of cloth to reveal hidden colour beneath, the work explores themes of mythology, transformation, memory and the hidden narratives that shape our understanding of ourselves.
This triptych developed gradually during the making process. Beginning with an exploration of Edvard Munch's The Scream, the work evolved into a meditation on the Japanese proverb See No Evil, Hear No Evil, Speak No Evil.
While working in the studio, Elaine listened to a conversation between Katy Hessel and Professor Diane Apostolos-Cappadona discussing Mary Magdalene. This sparked the realisation that the three figures had become Mary Magdalene, Eve and Lilith—three women whose stories continue to shift between history, religion and mythology.
Using her distinctive cut-through embroidery process, Elaine layers coloured fabrics beneath a surface cloth before carefully cutting into the fabric to reveal what lies beneath. The technique reflects her ongoing interest in uncovering hidden histories, inherited narratives and the layers that shape identity.
The work forms part of an ongoing series exploring mythology, female archetypes and the stories we inherit.
Medium: Cut-through embroidery on reclaimed textiles
Approximate Size: 38 x 33 cm (1.3ft x 1.9ft)
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