sewing without bobbin thread
Nina Martine Robinson’s sewing without a bobbin thread explores being the designated daughter and caregiver burnout through the lens of a late diagnosed autistic woman. Initially the focus of this series of sculptural textile works surrounded the phenomenon of “masking” and the autistic burnout that can occur when masking long-term. Masking is a coping mechanism that allows an autistic person to hide or camouflage their traits to appear more neurotypical. It is a phenomenon that occurs more frequently in autistic girls. It also accounts for the seemingly higher rate of late diagnosed autistic women which has sparked much discussion in the media of late. Recently, as caregiving has become an integral part of my daily routine, I find myself immersed in another aspect of neurodiversity, that of age-related dementia and Alzheimer’ disease. The relationship of being a caregiver and an artist has unfurled in an organic fashion as though it was always there deep inside me. The physical act of sewing is a self-soothing mechanism that keeps me grounded in the present, allows me to process current caregiving challenges and preserve my mental health through my creative process.
Free and open to the public
WhereMCBA Outlook Gallery
WhenOctober 31st, 2026–January 18th, 2027
Viewable from the street (and from inside the shop during open hours)
I am a textile artist from Shoreview, MN. I have been investigating neurocomplexity, specifically, autism in women. Utilizing a sewing machine and repurposed clothing I can be a conduit for change. Change in acceptance of neurodivergence, as well as, change in perception of textiles and stitching as fine art. Stitching, working with my hands is meditative and has allowed me to explore my autism traits. Autism is a complex neurological condition that often presents differently in boys than in girls. Girls are often misdiagnosed with depression and anxiety. Girls learn to mask, or camouflage, their autistic traits at an early age. Masking is a complex strategy for autistic women. It can have serious effects on physical and mental health. I deconstruct discarded garments, collaging them together into large geometric flat forms. The forms are then stitched together resulting in a 3-dimensional “mask.” Texture is achieved through repetitive stitching and manipulation of the structure.
