LibQuilters
In the midst of all of this, I came across an announcement for an art exhibit titled: Blurred Boundaries
The word boundaries (can) carry quite a negative connotation (for me). This title intrigued me and I stopped long enough to consider entering it. After reading the description I decided I actually did have some work that fit into this arena; okay what the heck, I’ll enter.
The concept is to showcase artists that use unique materials and techniques for fiber art; not staying within the typical boundaries.
The deadline was looming and I began to hesitate because I do not have easy access to my things as I would like (just yet); however, on the last day and the last hour, I decided to enter. I chose three pieces I thought qualified. The entry form asked for a detailed description of each piece, including techniques and materials which was critical to the acceptance. Hmmmm….
Let me think, can I even remember what I did, what I used way back in 2009/or earlier this year? Here is my description of Zen Wreath:
Techniques used: The simple center wreath design is traditional; however the materials used are not. A layer of painted silk organza is placed over the base which is painted and sealed tissue paper. A (circle) of grapevine is stenciled to the base. Additional torn strips of painted organza are layered on all four sides. The flowers are made with painted, sealed and torn tissue paper. The sections of the flowers were torn free hand without a pattern. The bird and branch were cut from painted paper bonded to muslin. French knots are stitched to the center of the flowers. The entire piece is hand stitched with a large scale running stitch. The binding is painted torn tissue paper.Most shows have a month or so of time that is allowed for the jury to take place. This one was different. I was notified in one week
THAT ALL 3 PIECES WERE ACCEPTED!
Tin Heart
Fragments
Zen Wreath
It is a small show, should I say “selective”. 50 pieces were entered, 20 accepted., 12 artists including me.
Now, that has NEVER happened!
I now had the next challenge: Preparing and packing them to send to Michigan. Ehhem…..
This was truly challenging as NONE of my stuff is unpacked in my studio; as it is still under construction Not only did I have to pack them for shipping (find a box, packing materials, etc) but in addition, two needed sleeves and all needed dowels with eye hooks.
Now, I cannot bear to use just any fabric for sleeves; it must be the same one. HA!
1-Did I even own anymore of these fabrics?And, if so, where in tarnation would it be? Which one of the zillion boxes should I look?
2-The sleeve also needed a dowel. Same problem; I knew I owned some, the kind I like the best. And, where on earth are the screw eyes?
3-The sleeve has to be sewn on and the work is not soft like most fiber art but rather stiff do to the unique techniques.
Ok, the hunt is on!!
Success! I DID find the exact fabric, the dowels, the screw eyes and managed to sew the sleeve on rather awkwardly; but I did it and they are now shipped.
Oops, I left out an integral part of the story…..
While I was scrambling to do all of this……I received a message that
ZEN WREATH had won third place!
Not only was the notification fast but also the judging. This may sound surprising, but I never enter a show to win. I don’t even know if the award includes money. My honor is to be accepted. Winning something is icing on the cake. This is proof that excellent digital images are a must!
And, to think I almost didn’t enter, ha!
I guess I still ‘have it’ after all.
Textile Art to Own
CONGRATULATIONS 3x over….what an honor plus a win!!
Moving is exhausting (We are military), so even better to have this in the midst of all the upheaval-way to go! I am proud of you for having the energy to dig for everything…I would have let that one pass:)
All three quilts are very lovely…beautiful layers…congratulations, and thanks for sharing!
Thank you Jeanne for your compliment! It is always affirming to hear from fellow artists.
Thanks! We are military too. 27 years in the Navy. But, this move was our choice, finally! My husband told me to pick where I wanted to live and let me choose the house, he did not see it before we made the offer. Great experience! Yes, digging was challenging, but worth it. Found a lot of other stuff along the way.
hey, congratulations!