Qualeasha Wood showcases digital-inspired tapestries in London

Qualeasha Wood is a digital artist known for her unique tapestries. Her artwork combines distorted self-portraits and various internet images. These large-scale pieces are made from recycled cotton jacquard, featuring both machine and hand embroidery. Her tapestries are layered with images and symbols from her life. Some include self-portraits in lingerie, while parts of her body may be pixelated or erased. The tapestries also feature text that blends computer code with poetry. The colors often give a watery feel, reflecting her artistic style. Wood aims to explore themes of vulnerability and identity through her art. As a queer Black woman, she addresses the challenges she faces in society. She uses satire in her work, often making strong statements about race and identity. One notable piece, acquired by the Metropolitan Museum of Art in 2022, highlights her experiences during online conversations about race and the Black Lives Matter movement. Her interest in textiles began during her time at the Rhode Island School of Design. An encounter with a teacher, who dismissed her work’s social themes, motivated her to persist in blending art and social commentary. She also connects her art to personal memories, such as a blanket woven by her grandmother that featured her baby photos. This connection to her family and background is essential to her creative process.