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.

Spring Sample

13"x18", assorted treated fabric, tea stained, flour paste, beads, embroidery and machine stitching.

When I'm between projects or otherwise locked into 'real life' I have a habit of stitching together blocks of scrap fabric and just stitch when time allows. It is a way of staying in the game, trying ideas out or repeating favorites. This has quite a mix and I edged it in a scrap of red and black stripes. Getting closer to stepping into the abyss...will keep you posted!

Blue Oasis

10"x12", magazine photos, tissue, embroidery, ornate trim. Used the magazine photo of Jerusalem as a base and then added cloth, tissue and embroidery. Fascinated with a strong blue on this one maybe because we are having such blue sky days here at the beach. Always like adding my stitches and now see the imagery looking more like an island floating in blue. I will never get to travel to Jerusalem so this will be my own private ancient city.
Spring is full of home repair and garden clean-up...studio time is  lately rare. I'm thinking of sewing together some cloth as a base or backdrop and Just Stitching as a soft meditation, maybe a simple time of grace.