Motivation for many textile artists comes from the materials themselves. Not just the visual impact of the colors, but also the tactile experience–the feel when touching the fabric, or its hand. The hand can be anything from smooth and soft to nubby and scratchy.
I had this silk for a while and decided to make some reversible pillows–Cobalt blue on one side…
and on the other, turquoise with a simple graphic design of cobalt blue appliqued stripes.
On a trip this past spring I purchased some beautiful, brightly colored, light-as-air sheer silk. For a Christmas gift I decided to hand-roll the edge of this silk to make a scarf.
Again, the motivation first was the color and softness of the material, but as I slowly took tiny stitches to draw up the raw-edge and turn it in upon itself the act of concentration became meditation. Time slowed…my focus narrowed…and thoughts and ideas swirled in my mind…
Handwork is not my strong-suit for many times I am too impatient for activities this slow and demanding. But this time was different. I found that by using silk, needle and thread, the thoughts, love and images swirling in my mind had time to create quiet, to weave together, and be sewn… into calmness and peace.
*What are the things or processes in your art, or in life, that provide motivation, meditation, and peace?
Joni Beach 