My concept for a fall silhouette using pine needles, seed pods, stones and other natural materials from the garden proved so frustrating that I gave up on it — and decided that maybe my winter silhouette was going to be my lone fiber project. Then, a book I'd placed on hold at the public library came in and changed everything.
"The Art of Embroidery: Inspirational Stitches, Textures and Surfaces" by Francoise Tellier-Loumagne is the most inspirational embroidery book I've ever looked at. It is less about technique and more about how to interpret your ideas in fiber. Great photo illustrations (also by the author) including stitch samples all done on heavy white paper making for the clearest instruction I've seen.
I was so excited by Tellier-Loumagne's book that I sat down and started another textile silhouette. This time I focused on Spring with all the greens pushing through the snowy winter detritus. I cut two silhouettes out of dark green net and then cut them into pairs of puzzle-like pieces. I experimented with a number of techniques for stuffing, stitching and attaching them to the black background.
They're filled with felt, fabric, ribbon, threads pulled from assorted fabrics, and bits of green plastic bags. Some pieces have small pieces of white lace inside them but most of that fabric is melting across the large silhouette image, held in place with beads and sequins.
I've started a summer silhouette but my concept involves more preliminary background stitching than the first two pieces, and it feels more like a chore than creative work. Hoping to be ready to move on to the fun parts soon!
You can read about my winter silhouette, the first work in this four-part series, here.
Summer is here.
I love beads, baubles and lace. This is a fine work. Can't wait to see part III. Have you ever looked at the blog Plays With Needles? You should look there for inspiration too. She is an amazing artist with the needle and beads...
Posted by: Lisa at Greenbow | Sunday, March 24, 2013 at 12:30 PM
Lisa — Thanks for the kind words and the reminder. I know Plays With Needles but havent visited for a long time, so I will go have a look!
Posted by: Linda Brazill | Sunday, March 24, 2013 at 02:11 PM
Linda -- These (as well as the previous collage/needlework you posted) are wonderful! Your enthusiasm for your new medium is infectious! Looking forward to seeing more. Susan
Posted by: S. Adler Sobol | Sunday, March 24, 2013 at 07:58 PM
Great piece! Great energy...like a brain firing.
Posted by: Julie Siegel | Thursday, April 04, 2013 at 03:57 PM