Domitilla Dardi's 'Cucire Universi' Explores Gender Discrimination in Craft
Domitilla Dardi's new book 'Cucire Universi' (Einaudi) investigates the historical relegation of sewing and embroidery to the realm of 'minor arts' due to gender bias. The work challenges the notion of 'minor arts' and 'feminine arts,' arguing they do not exist. Dardi spent five years researching why certain techniques were considered Cinderella forms of art, confined to a limbo of so-called minor arts. The book recounts stories of gender and disciplinary discrimination, with Dardi stating in an interview, 'Many stories I found, others found me.' The publication aims to reclaim the status of these crafts as major arts.
Key facts
- Domitilla Dardi authored 'Cucire Universi' published by Einaudi.
- The book examines the historical discrimination against sewing and embroidery as 'minor arts'.
- Dardi spent five years on research for the book.
- The book argues that 'minor arts' and 'feminine arts' do not exist.
- It recounts stories of gender and disciplinary discrimination.
- Dardi stated, 'Many stories I found, others found me.'
- The publication seeks to elevate crafts to the status of major arts.
- The book was released on July 26, 2026.
Entities
Artists
- Domitilla Dardi
Institutions
- Einaudi