50 Shades Of Green

Moss embroidery is artist Emma Mattson’s vehicle to alleviate stress. We think it also works as a medium of storytelling.

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For many years art has been touted as a way to overcome stress, anxiety and depression - perhaps this is how the phrase ‘art is therapy’ came into existence. For Maryland based photographer and artist, Emma Mattson, it has become a way of life. Specialising in moss embroidery, Emma’s art transcends the natural and leaves you with a piece of landscape that is entirely unique, and almost life-like.

There are more than 10,000 different species of moss, and Emma’s creations serve to glorify this rather often-ignored flowerless plant. It is interesting how the embroideries, which Emma calls ‘miniature landscapes’ are so intricately detailed, in varying shades of green alone. Even without the usually bright colours and hues that blossom in gardens, these miniature landscapes really do stand out as a wonderful manifestation of the artist’s creativity.

“The different shades of green,” Emma says, “work rhythmically together with no sharp contrasts.” In their own way, these landscapes offer a sense of peace and quiet. The detailing flows freely enough to allow a harmonised and balanced reflection of nature, also highlighting the symbiotic relationship that exists amidst plants.