One moment please

Actually it will be well more than a moments delay until the reveal! First, I had to get to this point...creating the actual box. I have made these boxes before (click on sidebar featuring one titled "Forgive Me") but it was awhile ago and I had to figure out the pattern once more...then there was the trouble with using used foam core and then not having the brown paper tape. I used packing tape and that presented new problems. The other boxes were made using paint and collage as the decorative element and these new ones will be created using fabric. So the next problem is do all the composition, sewing, beads before applying to the box??? It's been a true challenge and all the while I'm asking myself the questions, the story. This one in particular is about discovery, what was abandoned and now found. The inside?, the actual box, and the lid or what covers, what was once beautiful but fallen on the perils of time, what is worn, what remains?(a self portrait? a memory remembered?)  I'm further along today but it will be a few more days...the reality of laundry, bills, groceries will be slowing me down!

Making Changes

Always good to make changes and here at Blue Sky Dreaming I'm preparing to step away from the flat surface for awhile. I'm putting together three dimensional shapes and using my stories, fabrics, beads and stitching in a different way. Not altogether new for me but with a fresh approach. I've written some of my stories and some working titles such as 1. Caravans 2. Healing from within 3.Magic and incantations 4. a favorite of mine, Abandoned elements. I am featuring a mask I created a long time ago (in the sidebar, click to read) as a reminder to  myself of the fun of changing things up! I had also added some interesting thoughts and quotes...worth the read. What are you tweaking, changing, altering in your art making? New Year is a good time for some off road play in art making. Wish me luck and tell me of your plans!

Ancient Treeline

12"x15", satin, cloth, stamp, paper, stitching machine and hand, rust treated string and trim. Trees show up in my art making all the time. It doesn't matter if I'm painting, printmaking or fabric art ...trees and leaves. Over the years I know I'm drawn to viewing tree lines whenever there is a clear spot, something about what is up ahead, sky and trees meeting, maybe oasis.  I received this beautiful pale rose cloth  in a giveaway presented by Connie and its been a challenge working it into my other fabrics and stitching. I didn't want to cover it with stitches yet I wanted to bring out the mottled shades and light spots. This piece was started in 2015 and finished here in 2016 so its a crossover piece. I've been searching for a new series and still searching...today I'll begin again!
The new year has presented itself with plenty of online wisdom, loving statements, online prompts on the subject of keeping a journal to prompts for spiritual exercises. I have been tempted but I've decided to go it on my own. 2016...full of my own words, resolve, direction, meditation and whatever else encourages me to love my life... it's in the doing!