I LOVE Circles

Circles appear in my work more than any other shape. I'm not sure why, but it definitely seems to be my symbol. So when the challenge for my "Blockheads" mini group came due, I looked through my vast selection of photos for inspiration. This photo of circles spoke to me the loudest, so this is what I added to my envelope. The exchange was random, but Jean and I ended up choosing each others envelope. Jean's inspiration is beautiful lily pads (looks a lot like photos in my personal collection). Jean and I share the same birthday (except I'm 20 years older), we also share many of the same ideas and interests: quilting, photography & computers. The only rule for this challenge is no barbed wire! It's going to be fun to see what comes out of this.

The painted fabric from a couple of weeks ago finally cured, so I rinsed the salt out and dried it. I stretched two panels today and added another layer of paint. The paint is transparent, so it will add more color and depth. I'm taking photos of the progress and will post on Monday. Tomorrow, I going to Road to California quilt show in Ontario with some friends. I'm sure it's going to be a lot of fun.

My silk piece is almost done, I'll should finish it tomorrow. I'm loving it more with every stitch.

Colorful Weekend

Wow, what a colorful weekend I had with Sherrill Kahn. She is a warm, generous teacher that is willing to share everything she knows and encourages you to take it even further. If you enjoy playing with paint and experimenting, I highly recommend this workshop.
The paints we used are Lumiere which is a metallic paint and strong coverage. Textile paint is transparent and glazes the surface beautifully. Neopaque is strong, bold colors that covers completely. Sherrill's Sorbets are pretty colors that really pop and have amazing coverage. I have a better understanding of how and when each type of paint should be used.

These pieces have several layers of paint and were stamped rolled and scraped. Both of these designs were printed from a design I drew onto a Styrofoam plate. Different colors of Lumiere were used. The one on the right was outlined with gold Lumiere paint.
All three layers began with one application of paint. The first layer was wet fabric, the second wet layer had the images painted onto it: red grid, gold spots and red circles. The rest was filled with colors. A third wet layer was added and all pressed together and magic happened. After it dried, I took the layers apart and did a masking tape resist, stamping, scraping and outlining to each piece. I really like the way all three turned out.
I have done this on my own and have found many great designs this way. You cut a hole in a small piece of cardboard and move it over a photo until you find a composition you like. The painting on the left was inspired by a photo in a National Geographic, the one on the right was taken from my sketchbook and was inspired by a piece of fabric.

I Survived the Presentation

My quilt presentation went pretty well. A couple of friends told me that my face was redder than my shirt and I spoke a little too fast. I'm glad it's over and I'm sure the next time will be easier.

Overall, my quilts were well received. When I presented my first finished quilt, I hear several gasps of surprise because it's way too nice for a first quilt. I think they enjoyed seeing my non-traditional quilts. Several people stayed afterwards to talk with me. One said my quilts were better than many of the speakers that we have and several asked me if I would teach a class.

At this point in my life, I don't have enough time to spend on my own artwork. I can't imagine teaching. Maybe when I retire.

Remember the turquoise wax painting. I added another layer of crayon and another wash of color. I also added some accents with Red Tsukineko Ink.

Here is the finished painting. I like it even better now. I think it has a lot more depth.And here are several of the ATC's after I cut it up. I really like the movement. I've finished these three weeks early, I don't need them till September.

Now I have to finish two quilts for a group show at the Elverhoj Museum from October - December.