A collection of meticulously embroidered fabrics modelled on Catholic style and iconography, including a cape featuring 802 shamrocks – one for every child who died in an Irish mother and baby homes tragedy has been created by a Birmingham City University student.
The Uncovered Secret Sin, a series of works and garments including the 10-foot-long shamrock clover piece and others featuring depictions of heaven and hell, was painstakingly created over several months by embroidery designer Madelaine Atkinson, a final year textiles student. Madelaine's collection – which will be exhibited as part of BCU’s Inspired Festival next week - is based on the religious imagery of Catholicism, drawing inspiration from the flamboyance, beauty and solemnity used in churches, well as papal fashion, accessories, ceremony, and performance.