Textures and threads draw me in. Seeing the composition of fabric and feeling it's textures is appealing. My mother was a milliner and the threads she used about 80 years ago are still in perfect condition. Seeing her handwriting is a special bonus.
June 1st signals the beginning of winter in New Zealand. Here is my 43rd ‘Cushy number' celebrating the colours of Autumn.
When I did my Diploma of Visual Art and Design at the Eastern Institute of Technology, it was all about the process. Take one stage at a time and develop that with drawings and once you have achieved multiple drawings choose one to develop into an artwork.
My brain works in a different way. I’m more an intuitive maker and don’t like the idea of a ‘onesie.’
To make many, is to give strength in numbers. A large picture of many parts that the viewer needs to keep visiting to understand and see the progression of my work. If it’s cohesive it flows and therefore there is more understanding about it. Most of my ideas come as I'm making one. The next idea develops and this progressive approach gives the collection. There is no distraction and the high level of focus and engagement usually results in a successful body of work. That's my goal anyway. Maybe its called obsessive art but for me its enjoyable.
‘Cushy Numbers’ are a collection of pin cushions that make craft into art. I was aiming for 20 but have produced so many more.
Some friends and family have heard about the small artwork I'm creating out of blankets. I have been on the receiving end of exciting donations.
Some have been a challenge as not quite to the colours I had in mind. I'm always up for a challenge so the colour palette of these individual artworks is about to make a rainbow jealous. Expect to see some more Cushies on here.
Oh the possibilities.
Ever thought of blankets as an art item? I've begun making a pin cushion out of a strip of blanket. It's a work in progress with so much scope from the humble nurturing blanket. #Cushies
