Mandala CCLXXX, The Dart Board

 

(Above:  Mandala CCLXXX, The Dart Board.  Custom framed:  27" x 27".  Magnetic dart board and other found objects hand-stitched to a section of a vintage quilt.  Other objects include:  Toy car wheels, keys, assorted bottle caps, blue plastic in the shape of a small tube, and assorted buttons and beads.  Click on any image to enlarge.)

I'm not exactly sure when SAQA (Studio Art Quilt Associates) posted their call-for-entry for an upcoming global/traveling exhibit called Sensational but I do remember seeing it after I created Mandala CCXLVII.  The call for entry is summarized as follows:

See it, touch it, hear it.  Let your artwork engage the senses in this no-theme exhibition that will allow viewers of all ages to experience textile art in ways not usually allowed.  Embrace the challenge to create art that is appealing not just visually, but also through sound, touch, or interactive components.

When I first blogged about my earlier mandala, I wrote:  "This Found Object Mandala is truly unique!  The center is a plastic target.  The protruding, flexible bristles will literally "catch" the point-less darts."  When I first read the call-for-entry, I knew this piece would qualify.  Because the call allows artists to submit three pieces, I will probably submit both of these works ... but ... I wondered if such a small (16" x 16") piece would really look appropriate in an exhibit that will most likely feature larger works ... and ... well ... why couldn't I make a larger dart board.  I certainly had enough time.

 

(Above:  Detail of Mandala CCLXXX, The Dart board ... with darts.)

So ... this is really the first time I actually ordered something for one of my Found Object Mandalas.  The magnetic dart board wasn't "found" (unless you consider "finding it" through an Internet search!)  It is, however, hilarious because it really and truly works!  For the photo above, Steve literally threw the darts onto the artwork!

 

(Above:  Detail of Mandala CCLXXX, The Dart Board.)

I have no idea whether I'll have work accepted into the show or not.  These opportunities are very, very competitive.  I do know, however, that I had a blast making this piece and that Steve doesn't care if it gets in or not.  He'll have fun throwing the darts at it!