Who would have known the humble beginnings in Grand Bahama in The Bahamas would yield the embroidery genius of Jillian Bartlett. Today the mother of two and world-class fitness instructor for Bally's is one of the last remnants of embroidery geniuses. It is amazing to see the human handiwork of the full color embroidery showcasing the images of her experiences; island flamingoes, beautiful beaches and sunsets to rival real ones. Being done as a hobby, Jillian has now begun the mission of finally bringing her art to the public and plans to hold exhibitions and offer her work for sale. As a lead in to her grand reveal here is Jillian Bartlett, Embroidery Queen.

A product of the storied Government High School in Nassau, Bahamas back in 1978 to 1980, it began with sewing as a class option that she chose. Jillian choose the interesting art of embroidery because the kitchen at the time was way too hot. When I finished high school in Eight Mile Rock of Grand Bahama, I continued my art. As kids Jillian and her family spent a great deal of time on the beautiful beaches of Jack Tar and Holmes Rock, where there were fields of sea grapes and cocoa plums growing for miles along the beaches and roads. The beaches were beyond the word pristine in comparison to what exists today and has left an indelible impression in her heart that has fed her inspiration.

"At the time I did not know how valuable this art had become. With the direction of my mother I was able to circumvent all the negative influences growing up. As I matured to a woman I saw the destruction of others due to drugs but my mother would put the fear of God in me. Watching family members and friends die for drugs either by taking it or selling it was sad and difficult. Instead of focusing on the pain and sadness I used my embroidery and art. It helped a great deal and protected me; believe it or not, it is one of the reasons I choose to become a fitness leader."

What I have noticed lately when persons discover my artwork, they are overwhelmed, impressed by the details, it makes them feel good, reflective of the possibilities. Like an observer said, the Caribbean has a lot of undiscovered talent. They are impressed with the details and my patience. I have been at this for a long time. I have a son that is 26 years old and I use his life as a guide for how long I have had some pieces. I have up to over 25 pieces completed in various sizes and more on the way. My angelfish underwater scene took over three years to complete and several others about a year. Why did I choose the Dolphin and Flamingo scene?Again, it reflects a time of peace and clean environment.