About

Megan McCoy, living and working in Omaha, Nebraska. Graduated from the University of Nebraska at Omaha with a Bachelors of Fine Art, a K-12 Teaching Certificated and an Art History minor. Recently received a Masters in Textile Design from Norwich University of the Arts in Norwich, England.

My work is the result of personal moments that have emerged from my experiences of contemporary life. I approach making a piece of artwork through the use of craft techniques, specifically embroidery, cross-stitch and tufting. I value the process of making art and using my hands - I get frustrated, I solve problems, I fix things, I create something and then it becomes a part of me. Employing methods traditionally labeled ‘women’s work’ and me, a woman, using these techniques in this setting is empowering and rebellious. These methods also make me connected to my work and the subject matter I’m addressing becomes more potent. By using techniques that are historically viewed and de-valued because they are feminine craft, I’m addressing the stereotype of craft within fine art and the stigma behind what is considered feminine art. The images and designs I use in my work in contrast with using fibres and textiles creates this beautiful mix of ‘comfortable and confrontational’, a phrase I’ve started to label my art as. Embroidery and cross-stitch have been my go-to materials/methods of creating art. But recently I picked up tufting and I feel its elevated my work to another level within that comfortable and confrontational spectrum. I can make larger scale works easier than embroidery or cross stitch, also the texture tufting gives off is beautiful alongside the designs I use. I enjoy using objects found in the home like rugs, pillows, napkins, table clothes, etc… as a vehicle to bring my art to light. With my work I want to encourage the conversations about what being a woman is and embracing your body and your womanhood, hopefully inspiring others on my way to reclaim my femininity.