It started with a challenge in Jane Dunnewold’s Creative Strength Training book to “use what you have.” At the time I was reading the book, I was also moving to Sunriver, Oregon. As I was unpacking my home studio, I opened a plastic bin marked “Finished Projects and Samples.” Inside was my stitchery from workshops, challenges, stalled projects and books. All of it seemed to want to come out and play. The contents of other boxes joined in: a vintage pillowcase, fabric “donuts” rescued by a friend, a jarful of buttons. I wanted to play, too, and spent the first few weeks in my studio cutting and remixing the pieces into a collage.
As I played, I remembered the techniques I’d tried: Boro stitching, thread drawing, Momigami paper kneading, appliqué, different text styles. I recalled the joy and satisfaction of successfully trying something new. I could recognize themes running through my practice – even in the words I’d collected from James Taylor, Edna Ferber and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Frankly, I was surprised by my knowledge base. Just like the book said, it gave my “creative strength” a boost. Best of all, I honored my work by getting it out of that plastic bin.
- Materials: Embroidery floss, Momigami kneaded paper, hand-dyed fabric, vintage textiles, digital photo transfer, buttons
- Techniques: Handstitching, machine free stitching, Momigami paper kneading, digital photo transfer
- Dimensions: 17.5”h x 26.25”w
- Exhibitions:
2024 – ArtReach Gallery, Portland, Oregon
Most photos: Lyle Morgan