Hi Friends,
I’ve been working on the first of the new plaid flannel patchwork pieces and thinking about the meaning behind this work.
These plaids are familiar, and they evoke a feeling of nostalgia. They’re representative of old conditioned patterns.
The shirts have been cut up and reassembled into a new design — letting go of old traditions and saying goodbye to old friends. The contemplative stitching holds it all together, mending what’s broken and birthing the new.
We’re releasing what is no longer useful or appropriate to make way for something new.
I start by laying out an overlapping design, using safety pins to attach it to a piece of lightweight cotton gauze backing.
Then I use embroidery floss in a complimentary color and a diagonal running stitch in one direction to hold it together.
Next I cover the piece with a diagonal running stitch in the other direction to create an interesting texture that almost looks like an angular alphabet when seen up close.
This piece will be stretched on 20 x 20 inch wooden stretcher bars when it’s done. Then it’s onto the next plaid piece in the series!
This Saturday is the opening reception for the Ventura County Handweavers and Spinners Guild show at the Beatrcie Wood Center for the Arts in Ojai. I have five wall pieces and five handwoven scarves in the show, which are amongst the 100+ pieces from other guild members. I’ve seen the catalog for the exhibit, and it’s going to be an amazing show. Most of the work in the show is for sale.
The Beatrice Wood Center is located in Upper Ojai:
Beatrice Wood Center for the Arts
8585 Ojai-Santa Paula Road
Ojai, CA 93023
Stop by and check it out if you’re in the area.
It’s already Autumn! Where has the time gone? What are your plans for the season? I’d enjoy hearing your thoughts. You can share them with us here.
With love and appreciation,
Cassandra