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.

Circle of Return 002

17"x19", hand stamped cloth, variety of painted cotton, beads, both hand and machine stitching.

This piece is a step away from the 'gate imagery' of this series and instead a bridge was used as my metaphor. The green cloth was stamped with my own cut stamp as well as the dark sky star section was stamped with my hand cut stamp. The beads were just plain fun to sew!
A point of wisdom from a friend was that as we age we become more like who we really are ...In my life I've felt I've been on a journey, good, bad and even wonderful only to return as in full circle. I feel so much has dropped away and I'm more in touch with my truer self and it feels good ... like a homecoming. So the title "Circle of Return" seems perfect.