Angels, Flicker, and a new solo show

(Above:  Flicker Feather V.  Image transfer on fabric with self-guided, free-motion machine embroidery. 10" x 43 1/2".  Click on any image to enlarge.)

Last month I had the privilege of a two-week art residency at PLAYA in the remote Oregon Outback.  I blogged about the experience and most of the work I did (mainly fiber vessels).  Yet, I can't spend twelve to fourteen hours a day doing the same thing ... even in a paradise like PLAYA.  My studio practice definitely involves a little "skipping around" from project to project, and so I brought a few images transferred to fabric with me.  I free-motion stitched each one while enjoying the spectacular view to the frozen lake bed.  They are now finished and framed.

Above is Flicker Feather V.  I was keen to stitch this piece in Oregon because I snapped the photo during my October 2015 residency at PLAYA.  I also brought four small images of sculptural cemetery angels.  Each image was desaturated and otherwise altered in Photoshop before being printed on fabric. 

(Above: Angel I.  Image transfer on fabric with both hand and machine stitching plus beads.  Framed: 17 1.2" x 14 1/2".)

Each was stitched with black thread and further embellished with handwork and beads. Scroll down to see the other pieces.

(Above: Angel II. Image transfer on fabric with both hand and machine stitching plus beads.  Framed: 17 1.2" x 14 1/2".)

 
 (Above:  Anonymous Ancestors last September at USC-Beaufort's Sea Island Art Center.)

Years ago I was told that a professional studio artist will generally spend as much time with the "paperwork" of a career as in the active engagement of "making art".  I didn't believe it but it happens to be true.  Lately, I've been spending as much time in front of the computer as I've spent at my sewing machine submitting exhibition proposals for my solo show Anonymous Ancestors.

I know that most proposals will never be read.  An email acknowledging receipt of a proposal is rare.  Getting a solo show is like a quest to find the Holy Grail, so I'm beyond thrilled to announce that my exhibit will be at the University of South Carolina Upstate's Gallery on Main from August 31 through November 4th. There will be an Art Walk reception on September 21 from 5 - 8.  Wonderful news!

(Above: Angel IV. Image transfer on fabric with both hand and machine stitching plus beads.  Framed: 17 1.2" x 14 1/2".)

(Above: Angel III. Image transfer on fabric with both hand and machine stitching plus beads.  Framed: 17 1.2" x 14 1/2".)

I am linking this post to Nina-Marie's "Off the Wall Fridays", a site for sharing fiber arts.