Inspirations from Nature…and An Artist’s Materials.

Another wintry scene…

Winter’s Inspirations

ice encased twigs sparkling in the light…

snow silently falling…

a winter’s break for all!

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As a textile artist, I wonder if some people understand an artist’s motivations for in working in a particular art medium? Many times artist’s feel the urge to create because they are drawn to certain material(s) for some reason, such as fabrics…clay…wood…or watercolors. Is the reason because of~ how it feels to the touch?, how it looks?, or the way one can change or form it into something else?

On these cold, gray wintry days, I realize how drawn to the vibrant, rich colors of the fabrics and threads that I use in the studio! When I long for Spring, perhaps these colors become a substitute for nature’s flowers? Or, they give me an emotional response of hope and joy?

MVIMG_20180205_164711PaletteToledo
Color Palette for “Field at Toledo”

Another reason I work with fabric and threads is because of the texture and “feel” of the cloth to my hands…the softness and textures as creations are designed and made. In layering the batting and backing with threadstitching, additional textures are created and layered through-out the piece.

MVIMG_20180205_164651PaletteSeaImagesB
Color Palette for “Sea Images” series.

Textile art is unique in the soft, tactile nature of the materials, which can cause an  emotional response to the cloth. The depth of line and textures an artist can obtain is different than painting, sketching, and similar mediums.

I was drawn to fabrics as a child in grade school. I loved to visit a local fabric store and view all the many types, color, and textures of fabrics and threads…it fascinated me and motivated my imagination then,,,

and continues to now these many years later!

*If you are an artist, what is the material that most calls to you? For other Creatives in Life, are there types of art that you seem drawn to, because of the type of materials used to create it?

 

Recharging and Renewal…

Hi Everyone! It is in the middle of the winter @ my house, with below freezing temperatures and many gray days. With the holidays over, it is a time to recharge….reorganize….and renew inspirations for creating, exploring, and trying out new things in the studio!

Recharging!

So far this has been the only snowman at our house! Though it is only January…

In the spirit of recharging and renewing, on Sunday I attended a wonderful Sound Therapy concert by BreAnna Martin. She demonstrates and performs beautifully, playing the Tibetan and crystal singing bowls, gong, tuning forks and her voice, creating a relaxing, enjoyable, meditative experience! You can learn more about her story and what she offers at her website, The Singing Hare.  

Music and soothing sounds has always been important to me, and part of my creative life. 

As another new venture in the studio, I have begun an Instagram account for sharing artwork and inspirations! If you are on Instagram, visit me at @jonibeach …

You may also have noticed, my website has been updated (and continues to be!  🙂  ). Please explore and visit the Gallery and Art Shop to view earlier, as well as available Studio art work! I am now offering select designs as beautiful, open edition, high quality archival, Art Prints…printed individually by me in the studio~signed and matted (ready to frame). If you collect unique, original art or need a special gift for someone you know, please visit the shop and look around! 🙂

….Life can certainly be challenging, and after busy events or time of stress, finding ways of restoring our balance is critical for our creativity….as well as our well-being!  …..

What do you do to recharge and renew?

 

 

Inspirations From Life~Quiet Calm

“Beautiful white snow falling…

Quiet calm…

Peaceful soul.”