Michelle Agnew is an award-winning Canadian artist specializing in sculptural goldwork embroidery. With training from the Royal School of Needlework, she transforms traditional embroidery into a three-dimensional art form through impressionistic goldwork. Michelle’s work merges the ancient craft of goldwork with contemporary techniques, recontextualizing it within modern frameworks. Her approach aims to celebrate the medium's versatility and honour the craft’s rich heritage while expanding its boundaries, creating visually striking and conceptually engaging artworks.

Michelle is also a Freeman of The Worshipful Company of Gold and Silvery Wyre Drawers.

AWARDS
Hand & Lock the Prize: The Worshipful Company of Gold and Silver Ware Drawers Associate Award, 2024

Mr. X Stitch Contemporary Needlework Prize 2024, Hand Embroidery, 3rd place.

Newmarket Juried Art Show 2025, Honourable Mention.

EXHIBITIONS

Hand & Lock the Prize Exhibition, Rosenfeld Gallery, 2024.

The Broderers’ Exhibition: The Art of Embroidery, Bankside Gallery, 2025.

Newmarket Juried Art Show, Newmarket Old Town Hall, 2025.

PRESS

EMBROIDERY, The Textile Art Magazine, Volume 76, p. 15.