I began with screen printing a palm motif on cloth and the run of fabric paint formed a goblet or chalice shape. I went with the shape and took a journey with a wide variety of embroidery and beading techniques. This little desert series has been good for me, it has led me to some new ideas on how I want to proceed through the winter. I'm a believer in allowing the work to inform and to expect a dialogue between me and in this case the fabric. Many archeology sites end their digs at this time of year and proceed to catalog and report their findings. My urge to make lines and letters on the fabric has resulted in a direction of cataloging and marking these pieces as related to finding personal memories, images as well as ancient stories. I'm going to begin some serious journal writing as well as begin working with small abstract shapes in order to find my direction for larger fabric pieces. How I combine several smaller pieces will be one of my challenges. I'm still very excited about color, shapes and texture using beads, embroidery and cloth marking. I'll report back with some of my first efforts
Really beautiful piece!
ReplyDeleteThank you Connie Rose, This piece was a bit of a journey as I kept adding and adding but it finally reached its finished place.
DeleteYou did a fine job!
ReplyDeleteLOVELY Colors, Mary Ann!
Sue, Thank you so much, I used fabric paint and acrylic for washes of color and for the screen print and stamping.
DeleteThis piece has so much going for it! I love the combination of free-form with diagrammatic/graphic elements. The variety of stitching and beadwork lends so many rhythms to the piece, and the quiet yet rich colour palette speaks of ancient times and precious objects.
ReplyDeleteExciting how your series of "small" explorations is now leading you to a larger field of investigation. As ever, I look forward to seeing where your investigations lead.
Thank you Lynne for taking the time to comment on this piece. Yes, to the variety of embroidery stitches as that was the really fun part as well as the bead sewing!
Deletevery different, such a curvy shape... and it is great that you allowed yourself to be lead... I agree, the work speaks.. this is a stunning piece..
ReplyDeleteCaterina, Thank you for stopping by ... I agree with you on this allowing oneself to be led by the dynamics of the piece and I'm learning it means slowing down. I have some new work started and haven't a clue on next steps. A fine line between exploring or working with well used methods as both can be useful!
DeleteOh what a beautiful piece Mary Ann! This direction really suits you.
ReplyDeleteRobyn, Thank you so much! I believe my painting background is helpful in working with fabric although I'm starting to miss the splash of paint!
DeleteThe stitching on this piece really works! Colors are dreamy. Nice work!
ReplyDeleteThanks so much Karen ... it's been such fun to work with these materials but in new ways.
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