Capturing Memories and Place Through Vibrant Needlepoint Designs

Greetings, fellow needlepoint enthusiasts and avian-minded crafters! Today, we’re taking flight—both literally and metaphorically—into the colorful world of Ricardo Moody . If you’ve ever wondered how the earth looks from above, with its patchwork fields, rivers winding like loose threads, and every plant below basking in the sunlight (I mean, who hasn’t?), then you’ll love Ricardo’s artwork. It’s as if he’s captured the very essence of those fleeting moments we see from the sky—only instead of flying off, he grounds them in vivid color on canvas. Quite clever for someone who isn’t, well, airborne.

Originally from Orlando, Florida (a lovely place to perch, by the way), Ricardo now resides in Hattiesburg, Mississippi , where his eye for memory and place transforms everyday moments into works of art. He’s also a high school art teacher. Imagine, teaching grounded creatures the joy of creating. I can’t even imagine teaching without wings, but I digress...

Let’s swoop into one of his leafy masterpieces!

Ah, "Requiem" —a piece so full of life that I almost expect the Monstera leaves to start rustling in the wind as we glide by. From our bird’s-eye view, we see what Ricardo sees: a tribute to his grandfather ’s garden, where plants were not just objects of beauty, but keepers of memory. And what a memory it must be! I’d wager even the worms under that garden soil knew they were in the presence of something special.

It’s almost like the Monstera plant is winking up at us, as if to say, “Yes, even I have stories to tell.” But enough philosophizing! This piece is also perfect for intermediate stitchers ready to spread their wings (pun very much intended) and take on a challenge. You’ll need Pepperpot Silk threads —but if you ask me, it’s worth every peck (er, stitch).

Next, let’s soar westward to San Diego , where Ricardo’s piece "I Love You p.s. I Miss You" was inspired by a cherished moment with his wife. From our aerial perspective, the memory is as clear as a cloudless day, captured in the vibrant hue of pink —which Ricardo claims is his signature color. (I knew there was something about pink sunsets that made me feel particularly chirpy!)

Well, I suppose we birds have always known the magic of a pink sky at dawn, haven’t we? And as we circle above this snake plant , brought to life in stitches of vibrant greens and yellows, you can almost feel the warmth radiating upward. But don’t just admire it— 18-count mono canvas is calling your name, and the precision of each stitch will make you feel like you’re weaving the very threads of that happy memory yourself.

So go on, dive into this one. Let the colors fly off the canvas.

Well, I suppose we birds have always known the magic of a pink sky at dawn, haven’t we? And as we circle above this snake plant , brought to life in stitches of vibrant greens and yellows, you can almost feel the warmth radiating upward. But don’t just admire it— 18-count mono canvas is calling your name, and the precision of each stitch will make you feel like you’re weaving the very threads of that happy memory yourself.

So go on, dive into this one. Let the colors fly off the canvas.

Now, here’s something we birds can all relate to: the open road ! (Though, to be honest, we prefer the skies above it.) In "Power Lines and Interstate Signs," Ricardo captures the essence of a long road trip to Colorado —a state with lovely high-altitude breezes, if you ever get the chance to migrate there. He brings to life a mid-century modern chair , an object so simple yet deeply connected to memories of friendship.

From above, the clean lines and modern design are a treat to behold, as if they were drawn on the earth itself. And who can resist a story about how a piece of furniture ties us to a place, a time, or a person? Ricardo sums it up beautifully:

Ricardo’s art is about connections —to places, people, and the things that surround us every day. From our view above (and trust me, it’s quite a nice view), we can appreciate not only the colors and shapes he creates but the stories they tell. His pieces remind us that the world is a vast place, full of memories waiting to be stitched.

And let’s be honest, if you can see the world from our perspective, everything seems a bit more vibrant. Whether you’re soaring above fields or simply stitching away in your cozy nest, Ricardo’s work encourages us all to treasure those small moments that make life more colorful.

Until next time, keep your wings (or threads) fluttering, and may your memories soar!