Manuscript of Stars

10"x12", assorted embroidery, photo transfer, lace trim and variety of cloth...tea stained.

In another time I think I might have enjoyed creating elaborate manuscript pages and covers. The center square is of a section of an ancient mosaic floor depicting astrological imagery. These archaeological discoveries leave more questions than answers? How important was astrology? Magic and amulets also played important roles? Dreaming and stitching.

Moon Entrance

9"x14" tea stained fabric, crochet piece, silver leaf, embroidery and machine stitching, digital photo on cloth.
Time in the studio has been limited and there have been so many stops and starts. This small piece has had many directions and several 'lost days'. I used a digital transfer of a loved sketch of phases of the moon. Last resort was taking this to my sewing machine and let some free stitching create these precious views. I'm loving the variations of mottled stain on these different fabrics...very little control and plenty of surprises. The rest of July and into August will be slow paced which I think is good for an artist of my age...a gathering of myself and unfolding ideas and looking for tattered beauty.

Colorful Sadness

20"x22", assorted cloth, silver thread, machine stitched, applique.
I unexpectedly became a widow at age 48...it became a very dark time for me. During those dark days I created this quilt. The center bridge represents my wanting to crossover and the blue bird there to help me find my way as well as the scorpion (my sign) for protection. Above the dream image of Gabriel's horn, angels climbing the heavenly ladder and blue earth and golden trails below. sequins and stars too. Time healed both mind and heart and I folded this quilt and packed it in the closet.
I have happily remarried and life has been good for many years. Digging in the closet, I rediscovered this little quilt and I'm thinking of now, after all these years,  cutting and finding new places for these images.