The inspiration of Secrets Stolen is a bit elusive. In several series, Caroline Rust uses abstracted cuts, wounds, and openings in the flesh or fabric as a suggestion to a woman’s sexuality.  This is true for this series of embroideries. The marriage of image and the craft of sewing emphasize the traditional role of women to make pretty things. At times we give away our pretty things, our wishes, our dreams, though sometimes they are taken.