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It seems every time I think that I know what I'm finally about life steps in--read my curiosity, drive, and focus--takes a new twist.
I was first juried in Fiber Forum (exhibition group of the Embroiderers' Guild of America) back at its inception, 1991. I was just beginning to do my
personal work as opposed to teaching pieces. Since then I have grown a lot--grown through challenge.
We all have personal minimums in our file including embroidery and feel uncomfortable when we don't live up to our own expectations. We challenge ourselves
and sometimes we fail. Doing artwork is a day to day challenge to do the best that you can from where you are that day--maybe that minute.
I have always been an enthusiast. When I deem something worthy of my attention, there are no holds bared. The decision of embroidery as my basic medium is
very calculated in my work. In our world today it is associated with woman's work. I used that concept and broaden what and how it is perceived. In the pursuit of excellence in embroidery. I learned many kinds but
settled on silk and metal for the most part--that was and is my medium of expression. I have often cross the borders to mixed media and incorporate metal wire and sheeting, paint, paper, torn fabric, and many
threads not usually associated with embroidery let alone silk and metal.
Doing embroidery begins with much thought. I do a lot of word associations relating ideas in common and uncommon ways. I also sketch out ideas over and over
until I'm satisfied. This starts the process but eventually the work takes over and I follow along trying to keep it focused but allowing the piece to talk to me as I work. Decisions happen moment to moment.
I work in multi surfaced layers and very 3-dimensionally. I like the work to float in space and shapes and surfaces to shift as perspective literally and
figuratively change to bring new ideas and insight. No one's view is the same. To accomplish this I often use sheer fabrics and with no distinct edges. Many pieces are worked double sided having different aspects of
the same image on either side.
I work with gold and glitter to catch the eye and to add dimension to the work. Gold also represents what society holds precious or considers worthy.
Combined with embroidery it challenges preconceived ideas of value and social structure.
Shapes are condensed down to simple lines and then translated to add dimension.
The viewer is part of all my work. They are the interpreters: I bring my ideas, they bring theirs, and together new association can be realized. Hopefully,
it challenges them to new ways of thinking or seeing.
Embroidery is process oriented. The time spent influences the outcome. Even in the doing the materials take on a life of their own.
Exploring creativity is an ongoing challenge. How to look, how are things perceived, how do they affect your prospective. I enjoy this and invite the viewer
to participate visually and intellectually.
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