Gotcha! (2025) Textile Art by Richard Harding

Richard Harding is a contemporary American artist whose work is deeply inspired by the reflective patterns found in nature. He draws influence from the recurring forms in living organisms, such as coral, lichen, fungus, and even the internal systems of the human body. These natural patterns are often regarded as sacred by various religious and spiritual traditions.

Harding's soft sculptures are meticulously crafted using only thread, twine, and rope, which are sewn in concentric circles that build upon one another. He avoids using chemicals or fixatives, allowing his pieces to retain a delicate appearance while remaining resilient to the unpredictable chaos of everyday life.

His creative process is experimental and intuitive, with minimal planning involved, making each piece unique and impossible to replicate exactly. The shapes of the sculptures are determined by the tension of the thread, the characteristics of the cordage, and the angles at which the pieces are held during creation. Harding believes his process is entirely original and hopes visitors to his online gallery of Thread, Twine, and Rope appreciate the uniqueness of each work.