14 Years. 380 Embroiderers. 51 Countries. Millions of stitches. 1 Dress.
The Red Dress
A collaborative embroidery project, The Red Dress was conceived by British artist Kirstie Macleod as an artistic platform for women around the world, many of whom are vulnerable and live in poverty, to tell their personal stories through embroidery. The dress, which has toured the globe since 2009, features contributions from 380 artists from 51 countries and has become a representation of border-defying unity and self-expression.
Artist talk with Kirstie Macleod
Kristie Macleod — who conceived of and created the Red Dress Project — joins from her studio in England for a conversation about the origins and background of the project.
The Red Dress
Free and open to all
Suggested donation of $5 to support special exhibitions
Storytelling Through Embroidery
The Red Dress includes work from nearly 400 embroiderers. Learn more about them, and their additions to the project, by following the link below.
Learn MoreA Global Project
Embroiderers from more than 50 countries have contributed to The Red Dress. Explore more at the interactive map linked below.
View The Map
Three Stunning Dresses
In addition to The Red Dress, explore The Calico Dress — Pittsburgh's own version of The Red Dress created by local embroiders, craftspeople and imaginative Frick visitors of all ages — and a paper dress by Belgian artist Isabelle de Borchgrave — inspired by a piece from our very own collection: Peter Paul Rubens' Portrait of Charlotte- Marguerite de Montmorency, Princess of Condé.
The Frick Pittsburgh’s presentation of The Red Dress is part of a multi-year tour in the United States. The Red Dress was previously presented at the Southern Vermont Arts Center. Following its Pittsburgh premiere, the dress will travel to Fuller Craft Museum.
Image Gallery
