In the autumn, abundant leaves fall from deciduous trees, leaving traces of a season’s job well done. Simultaneously everywhere and yet tiny symbols of the fragility of our forest ecosystems, these delicate specimens spend all summer photosynthesizing and making sure their trees get the nutrients they need. Once their job is done, Susanna Bauer’s beautiful and intimate pieces begin.
Known for her lacy leaves meticulously stitched with cotton thread, Bauer transforms magnolia, gingko, oak, and other varieties of leaves into elegant, tiny textile pieces. Whether filling a precisely cut circular void, joining pointy edges, or merging multiple leaves together, the materials converge in a study of strength and vulnerability.
“Close” (2025), gingko leaves and cotton thread
If you’re in southwest England, see new works currently on view in Rock Paper Scissors at CLOSE Gallery, a group exhibition featuring work by a total of a dozen artists, some of whom Colossal readers may also recognize, like Kate MccGwire and Hew Locke. The exhibition continues through January 17 in Hatch Beauchamp, Somerset. Find more on Bauer’s website and Instagram.
“Unfolding” (2025), magnolia leave, cotton thread, and wood
“Daydreaming” (2025), magnolia leaves and cotton thread. Photo by Ian Kingsnorth
“Moon.86” (2025), magnolia leaf and cotton thread
“An Autumn Story” (2025), magnolia leaves, cotton thread, and wood
“Adjustment IV” (2025), magnolia leaf and cotton thread. Photo by Ian Kingsnorth
Detail of “Adjustment IV.” Photo by Ian Kingsnorth
“Where We Grow” (2025), plane tree leaves and cotton thread, 44.5 x 44.5 centimeters. Photo by Ian Kingsnorth
“Looking Glass” (2025), oak leaf and cotton thread
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