The metaphor of «silver thread» is used to express the idea of an elusive and ethereal connection that binds together the different components of a story. This phrase is commonly used to convey a sense of something that is not immediately evident but is still present, and is often viewed as a representation of a guiding force or a link that brings various elements of a puzzle together.

For Elena Corvaglia “silver thread” bears both metaphorical, and literal meaning. Exploring historical roots of mass production of lace and embroidery results in creating two stop-motion videos and a series of paintings.

In Collar (Circulation), 2023, the artist reflects on the mass production of goods and the manual labor involved in such processes. The artwork also explores the concept of femininity and the sublimated power of seduction that is often associated with lace and its appearance on the female body.

In Schiffliversenken, 2023, Schifflis move in a straight line across the screen in a process mimicking serial production, pulling white threads behind them until they collide and spiral into a chaotic dance accompanied by machinery sound, that fills exhibition space with a rhythmic beat and completely transforming it.

Corvaglia continues her explorations of womanhood in her ongoing Kitchen Series paintings. Each painting in the series is named after a woman and features domestic textiles that were previously embroidered by anonymous female authors. Through the process, Corvaglia delves into the history and experiences of women, often bringing to light their often-overlooked authorship and labor.

Text by Olena Iegorova