2008 Craft Show Artists

A selection of fiber works from my 2008 production based on research of map and satellite imagery. My process features a balance of machine and hand stitching as well as use of hand-dyed and salvaged materials. Techniques include natural and synthetic dyeing, needle felting, applique, reverse applique, piecing, bead work, and a variety of embroidery stitches.

These one-of-a-kind narrative wall pieces are influenced by my love of illustration, folk art and gardening. I use a number of techniques and materials in creating my work but mostly choose: hand dyed felted wool fabric with combinations of cotton thread hand and loop embroidery for surface embellishments. The felted fabric becomes my canvas while the hand embroidery a drawing tool and the end result is an intuitive response to the chosen idea and materials.

In my work, I am interested in the connections between self, place, emotion and time. Seasons, atmospheres, or the time of day intrigue me. I try to recreate these natural occurrences, evoking emotions that I associate with them through the use of color, line, and texture. I use different dye techniques such as batik, shibori and discharge; as well as sewing with my weavings and fabric collages. Stitches are then like drawn lines; tucking, layering and otherwise manipulating the fabric, are dimensional. Most of the techniques I choose to use are very contemplative in nature, encouraging introspection; other processes are spontaneous and unpredictable. I try to find a balance between the two approaches.

Functional quilts which are pieced from silk, cotton and wool fabrics. Machine quilted with wool, cotton or silk batting. Fully reversible. Washable.

I make one of a kind handtufted rugs using many colors of wool yarn blended together in a looped pile punched into a backing cloth, latexed and lined. The freedom of this technique has given me a perfect opportunity to explore the interaction between color and pattern. Meant to be walked on, but equally at home on a wall, my work ranges in size from door mat to room sized.

The scandinavian rep weave technique is used to create these luminous cotton and linen textiles. These artful, textural pieces include; rugs, wall hangings, upholstery and throws, in vibrant colors integrating original and historical patterns.

I learned to sew in seventh grade Home-Ec class. I loved it. I've been obsessed with drawing all my life. I discovered the technique of applique in the mid-eighties, and my art was transformed. I could draw and sew at the same time! Applique involves cutting fabric and then applying it with a needle and thread to a fabric background. I use the sewing machine as a drawing tool. But I am basically drawing pictures with scissors, needles, and thread. My ideas come from God know where... I guess I've always been more of an observer of life, than a participant. These are my observances. I love children's art, and "outsider" art. I am self - taught, and although it is difficult, sometimes, to teach myself new techniques, I'm grateful that I've never learned what "not to do".

The creative possibilities inherent in hand-knitting have always intrigued me. Needle size, yarn weight and mathematical calculations dictate the outcome of a repetitive flow of continuous knots. Simple tools and complex stitch arrangements result in a delicate and rhythmic dance. I strive to create pieces that maximize the combination of a few basic elements to achieve unexpectedly expressive sculptural forms. I develop works that are rooted in tradition but have a modern sensibility. Each side and every edge is carefully crafted to play off the textures. I embrace the natural challenges of the cooperative endeavor. Partnering with the materials and being aware of their intrinsic qualities is critical to allowing them to live and breathe. I work to ensure the grace, integrity, and complexity of the materials exhibit their own life while I attempt to fill every space with thought, interest and expression.

Handwoven 100% linen table runners, some with decorative hemstitching. Cold mangle finish creates lustrous surface.

Our textiles are hand-dyed, etched, and painted one at a time in our design studio in Brooklyn. No two are alike and each celebrates the objects of nature that inspired them. Touch them and you will feel how each coral, branch, and blossom is engraved deeply with exquisite detail exactly as they are in nature. This is because we use real objects every time to make these impressions in our signature fabrics. I hope they inspire people to slow down and see the beauty in the simple things. I choose my plants every time I print. Each flower, branch, even bug bites are celebrated in the collection as each print captures a moment in time. I hand mix my dyes, print each panel to size of the "canvas" that they will be sewn into. I hope they inspire you too.