Pat Bishop: Fiber Rich Art - Soul Nutritious

Cedar Swamp photo by Mary Kay Baum

2012-02-01T20:22:00.000-06:00

This is the inspiration photo for my Cedar Swamp series. I love this photo taken by my cousin, Mary Kay Baum. She is a very talented photographer. See my previous post to a link to see more of her photographs.

Mary Kay lives outside of Madison, WI and takes a lot of nature photos. I'm so fortunate she lets me use them. Thanks Mary Kay!

Cedar Swamp photo by Mary Kay Baum

2012-01-29T19:19:00.001-06:00

Cedar Swamp #1 (7" mounted on 10" wood block)

Mary Kay Baum is my cousin who takes beautiful nature photography in her spare time. She has led and is leading an interesting full life. Click on her name to see some of her photos and to see what her real passion is along with her two younger sisters.

One of her photos inspired me to do a series of artworks. I had this photograph in my studio for awhile, not knowing what to do with it. In October 2011 I took a class with Sue Benner, a well known, highly respected mixed meda artist. In this class we brought photos that inspired us, that we wanted to do something with. I chose the Cedar Swamp photo by Mary Kay. In Sue's class I learned more on creating abstracts from nature. I have taken other classes in the past from other talented women on abstraction (Yvonne Porcella and Cynthia Corbin), but sometimes you get stuck and need a refresher.

There are four small studies, of which I only show 2 here, the other 2 are unworthy of completion (in my opinion). #1 is shown above.

Starting out small I made 4 small abstract versions about 7 inches square. Some of my favorite fabrics are the rust dyed and in silk dyed with black walnuts. When I dyed this silk fabric it really didn't take the walnut coloring, but sitting in the dye pot for about a week it developed mold on the fabric . Luckily for me I loved the look of the mold blotches and it stayed in the fabric when I washed it. This is used in the sky and the foreground.

Cedar Swamp #2 (7" mounted on 10" wood block)

Cedar Swamp #2 is similar to #1, duh. That was obvious. You can see the tree in the mid-ground and the foreground are also rust dyed with tannin which gives it the beautiful greys. Both of these pieces are heavily quilted, which you can't see in these photos.

Cedar Swamp #3 11"w x 14" h (unmounted)

Cedar Swamp #3 was fragmented and reassembled. Although it hardly looks like the others, I like it and I think that's all that matters. This one has some velveteen that has discharge markings as well as more of the rust-dyed fabric and other miscellany.

*****
Then, on to #4 which is the largest to date. This piece contains more of the same fabrics. You can see in the first view the process used for all of the series was to fuse the fabric pieces down to the batting until I was satisfied with the composition.

It doesn't look like much at this point, other than the dark of the sky at the very top and the rock type shapes at the bottom as the foreground. In the mid-range I imagined the horizon. I worked on the tabletop surface, pressing to fuse at this point.

This is the overlay of trees using several discharge dyed fabrics along with some of the rust dyed.

Cedar Swam #4. Finished size is 22"w x 31"h, unmounted.

All pieces are heavily stitched and bound with a facing. This is #4 completed. Feel free to contact me if you have any questions. Thank you for taking the time to read my blog.

See 'Nevermore' at the Waukesha Civic Theatre

2012-01-22T19:08:00.000-06:00

Nevermore by Pat Bishop, part of the exhibit, "13 Ways of Looking at a Blackbird"

"13 Ways of Looking at a Blackbird", an exhibit by the Fiber Artists Coalition is now on display at the Waukesha Civic Theatre in Waukesha's historic downtown. This exhibit is up through February 22, 2012.

The Fiber Artists Coalition is a group of fiber artists from the midwest, Wisconsin, Illinois, Michigan. For more information and to see more of the art quilts on display click on the link on the left sidebar of this blog, the fourth one down is the Fiber Artists Coaltion blog for a peak at more of the quilts on display.

To learn more about all the artists who are members of the Fiber Artists Coalition check out our website.

For information on the Waukesha Civic Theatre click here for directions and to see what else is happening at the theatre.

What's happening in the studio?

2012-01-15T20:03:00.000-06:00

The week after Christmas was spent partially in my studio, cleaning out non-related 'stuff' like yarn, paring down the books, tearing down all the notes stuck to the window frame, clearing off the work table, putting away non-essentials. From this photo it doesn't look that clean, but it really is a major improvement. It cleared my head and helped me focus on what I needed to concentrate on.

After cleaning up I made some last minute Christmas gifts - eight snack bags. Yes, I know, these were made 'after' Christmas, but they were Christmas presents. These turned out great, really cute and I need to make some more. They were quite simple, quick and non-irritating. I started work on a commission that is just about finished as of today. I'm anxious to get back to finishing my Cedar Swamp large piece. I really love how its turning out and its almost done. See? This is the fourth in my Cedar Swamp series, and the largest. My cousin, Mary Kay Baum took a photo of Cedar Swamp, which was owned by my grandparents and is now owned by my cousins. The photo was so inspiring, though this representation, looks nothing like it.

Dyeing with Black Walnuts

2011-10-02T19:23:00.001-05:00

Black Walnuts in the pot

My first adventure with Black Walnut dyeing. I received a box full of freshly picked Black Walnuts from my friend Tammy’s dreaded trees. I’ve searched the internet for ‘how to dye with these nuts’ and come up with lots of variations. Sounds like whatever you do, you will come up with some sort of dyeing success. So, I’m hopeful of good results. I’m also impatient so I will sort of follow the recipes that are quick and easy, which is ‘my way’ as Frank Sinatra would say.

I covered the bottom of a graniteware 5 gallon pot with the black walnuts, hulls and nuts, green and black and some with mold growing from them. This pot is/was a lovely mustard color, I’m afraid it won’t stay this color, on the inside at least.

I covered them with water plus some so I have a depth of about 8 inches of water and nuts.
Put the kettle on the stove to bring to a boil. Then I will boil them for 30 minutes. 15 minutes into bringing the pot to a boil process and the water is quite black. After 30 minutes of simmering, the fabric was added and continued simmering for another hour.

Fabrics in the bath are: 1 yd cotton sateen, ½ yard basic cotton, 1 yd of partially pre-dyed damask that I then pleated in 2 inch pleats and hand stitched with quilt thread to hold the pleats. Also some misc. unknown content pieces of fabric. I’ll have to weigh it when its done dyeing.

Pre dyed:

After 1 hour in the simmering pot, the fabric looked about milk chocolate color, I was aiming for a darker brown so I decided to add 5 large rusty washers and let it simmer another hour.

Then I added red wine vinegar, about a cup and let it soak another 24 hours. After 24 hours I rinsed, then tossed in the washer with synthrapol and a little laundry detergent, warm wash, cold rinse, then Dryer.

First dye results:

I’m not happy with the weak color, like a faded milk chocolate. I will re-dye again with more black walnuts. Some of the pieces turned out lovely, like the silk lining very dark brown, satin nice antiqued color and the fine loosely woven unknown content napkins.

Initial weight of full batch is 15 oz. I re-dyed 11 oz. the 1 yd of cotton sateen, half yard of misc. cotton and large damask piece.

In the re-dye I used the leftover dye and added another layer of green hulls. I boiled it for 45 minutes then put the fabric in overnight with the cover on to keep it warm. Well, it ended up being a week rather than overnight. I didn’t have time to rinse and thought, hey, what the heck, if one night is good, a week is better.

So this weekend I finally removed the fabric from the dye pot and hung it on the line outside to dry to enhance the setting of the dye, then I ironed it to possibly improve the adherence by heat setting the dye again. Then I washed and dryed the fabric in the dryer.

Results: The second batch did dye slightly darker than the short term dyeing. I am not enthralled with the results. I was hoping that the cottons would dye as dark as the silk kimino lining that turned a lovely rich warm coffee color. Overall I am happy with the results and will try this again.

Original results on the left, redyed on the right ( not a significant difference):

You never know what you’re going to get with natural dyeing, at least I don’t. Its always an adventure. The excitement is in the expectation for me. I realized I am an experimenter in my cooking and dyeing and many things I do. I enjoy trying new things, it’s the excitement of new discoveries that I am after.

Dyeing damask linens with dyes from Nature

2011-09-11T14:03:00.000-05:00

Using the techniques I learned from Shelley Ryan back in July (see my previous post) I wanted to try using all the damask linens I have been collecting from rummage sales. These are some of the fabrics I use in my artwork so I wanted to see if the dyeing worked as well on cotton as it did with silk. My results this time were similar to the silk, but with less color, more shades of grey. This could be due to the fact I didn't use any flowers and when I used wire it was steel, not copper.

The procedure was I had four separate Ziploc quart size bags, A, B,C and D. In two of the dye bags I used wire to wrap the fabric and natural dyes. For those with wire the fabric was wrapped around ingredients and then wrapped tightly with wire, those w/o wire were still wrapped tightly around ingredients. Then I poured about 3/4 of a cup of white vinegar in each bag. I left all the bags in the sun for 8 days, then dumped out the ingredients which looked and smelled like compost, then dried the fabric in the sun for several hours. After rubbing off the excess coffe grounds, tea leaves, and other gook, I hung them on the line til they were really dry outside in the sun still. Then they were pressed with hot iron which kind of stunk up the house for awhile. Then I washed them with laundry detergent, dried them in the dryer and pressed again. Each bag had a different variety of food bits, tea and coffee in them. They all had vinegar. You can see my results below and what was in each bag.

A. Vinegar, wire, smashed purple grapes w/seeds, used coffee grounds, used Hot Cinnamon Spice tea

B. Vinegar, mango fruit tea, rust dust, tannin, smashed purple grapes

C. Vinegar, wire, Pineapple calypso tea, Spiced black tea, smashed purple grapes

D. Vinegar, wire, Mango passion tea, used Hot Cinnamon Spice tea, smashed cherry pits

A. B. C. D.

Have you done of this type of dyeing? If so, I'd love to hear about your results. I'd like to try hemp, has anyone dyed hemp with natural dyes?

Dyeing from Nature at "The Flying Pig" Gallery in Algoma, WI

2011-07-23T23:40:00.000-05:00

Today I dyed silk scarves with flowers, coffee grounds, dirt, wine and vinegar, among other things. Shelley Ryan, Wisconsin Gardener host and producer from Wisconsin Public Television taught a class at "The Flying Pig Contemporary Gallery and Greenspace". Shelley was a delightful instructor and it was a great day! There were 20 people in the morning class and a repeat in the afternoon.

At lunch we were treated to a feast of concoctions pulled from the garden spaces at the gallery as well as a wine tasting from Von Stiehl Winery from Algoma, WI. The Rose Petal Soup was great, as well as the Sweet Pea and Dill Salad, Blueberry Chicken Salad and Flower Petal Butters These were just a few of the samplings prepared for us.

It was a great day to spend in the garden with Shelley and the staff from The Flying Pig. I'm so excited to try some more of this dyeing on my own.

Oh the Possibilities!

2011-07-17T11:20:00.000-05:00

Too much or just enough time on my hands leads to hair brain ideas or is it just creative thoughts? I'm on the verge of a week long vacation with no specific plans. It excites me to think I will have all this time and unlimited possibilities.

Goal #1 is to spend time in my studio/sewing room. But, I'm pulled to read a book, work on my crocheting, dye some more fabric, do some sketching, catch up on my internet surfing, email reading, blog checkouts, write to MY blog which I have so very much abandoned, and for sure take a break from the gym. Where to begin?

I started the weekend with a trip to the Trout Museum of Art Biennial Member Exhibit, Friday night. I was pleasantly surprised by the diversified group of great artworks and a nice crowd of art lovers. The fiber arena was well represented by myself and friends, Gwyned Trefethen and Jeanne Pfister as well as a few others I was unfamiliar with. I submitted "Gawking Cranes" for this exhibit which runs through August.   One of my favorite pieces was by glass artist, Mary Jo Weidert. She does fused glass and has her own gallery in Menash, the Wild Apple Gallery. Check it out.

Milagros - Jack Alone

2011-06-05T20:31:00.000-05:00

At the invitation of Kathy Briggs who is a member of Fiber Artists Coalition I was asked if I would like to be a guest artist for a traveling exhibit the group Fiber Artists Coalition is doing with the title "Milagros". This exhibit debuts at the University of Michigan Hospital for their 2011-2012 exhibit calendar. I was flattered and thrilled to contribute.

The definition of Milagros is 'little miracles which offer comfort, hope, peace, strength and/or courage to the viewer'. To me the Jack-in-the-Pulpit is a little miracle the way it pops up in the middle of May in the cool woods. They are only seen by the lucky few who are looking for them, like me.

The Fiber Artists Coalition is a group of fiber artists from the midwest United States who are all members of the Studio Art Quilters Association (SAQA).

The Fine Line Creative Arts Center - St. Charles, IL - Material Ways

2011-01-06T20:59:00.001-06:00

My piece, "Walk of the Cranes" is included in Material Ways - an exhibit of art quilts created by regional members of the Studio Art Quilters Alliance. Contemporary, one of a kind, pieces created by artists working with their own hand-dyed, painted and embellished fabrics. Each quilt reflects personal experiences of everyday life and the beauty of the natural world.

If you've never been to the Fine Line, you can look at this map to get there : http://www.finelineca.org/contact/index.html

Reception: Saturday, January 8th from 1:30 - 4:00 PM

Show Dates: January 7 to February 19 (6 wks.)

What I did on my Thankgsgiving Holiday - My Favorite long weekend!!

2010-11-28T19:16:00.000-06:00

This is my favorite long weekend because the holiday part is the first day usually, followed by three days of dong whatever you want. This year was a little different but still very enjoyable. Well, we weren't having a big meal on Thanksgiving as the married kids are spending it with their other half's families. Jess and Jason came to our house Thanksgiving afternoon to spend the long weekend with us. Thursday was 1) read the ads for Black Friday. 2) plan for Black Friday shopping trip starting at 2am. 3) start making approximately 30 fabric wallets as gifts for friends. Click on Valori Wells to see the pattern and link to "Keep Me in Stitches" quilt shop where you can purchase the pattern and fabric. Jacqi shared the pattern with us last weekend at our Bjorklunden retreat last weekend. Thursday night we selected coordinating fabrics and cut them to the pattern size.

Friday we did get up at 1:45 am to do our "Black Friday" shopping trip with daughters/sisters Tracy and Liz. We had a chilling fun bargain hunting adventure arriving back home by 10 am. Naps immediately followed. Afterwards Jess spent the day with one of her nieces and one of her nephews having the funnest day ever according to one young gentleman. Later that day we finished pinning together wallet fabric preparing for sewing.

That evening sewing, turning and pressing was done

Saturday was brunch with the family, grand kids and all. It was a wonderful morning together. Liz and Tracy picked out their favorite wallet from the assortment. They will get them as soon as we finish the closures. We thought they were an appropriate initiation gift to "Black Friday" shopping, their first time for this, where you just use your cash and cards, no time for big bulky purses. Its serious business, hunt and buy, no browsing. Get in and get out.

Later that day after more bargain shopping, a nap by one and a workout by the other, more work was done on the wallets, we opted for buttons and buttonholes. At the end of the day we had put together 37 (thirty-seven)!!!! Valori Wells wallets.

Are you one of the lucky ones on our Christmas list? To make your own wallet check out Jacqi's shop, "Keep Me In Stitches", Appleton, WI. She has great fabrics and buttons to finish these quick, cute gifts. Easy too, but 37 is a lot. Thank goodness, Jess and I worked well as a team. Thanks J!

Door County,WI Sewing Retreat Weekend

2010-11-28T16:05:00.000-06:00

Daugher Jess and I at Bjorklunden, not sure who took this picture of us with my camera.......hmmmm, Jacqi? Rhonda?

Last weekend, the weekend before Thanksgiving was our semi-annual date for Bjorklunden Retreat with Jacqi Levy from "Keep Me in Stitches". Jacqi invites 30-40 of her closest sewing/crafting/scrapping/knitting friends for a four day fun-filled gathering to indulge in your favorite pastime along with eating, talking smart, eating, staying up late, eating and generally having a "Dear Camp" extended weekend. Think hunters' deer camp, female style. This time we had the option of a one hour massage with an awesome certified massage therapist, Catherine De Valk of Appleton, WI www.devalkhealth.com which many of the ladies took advantage of. It was heaven.

Here's Rhonda(left), Alice(the chicken in the center with the lime green "do") and Jacqi(right). Looks like Rhonda is giving Jacqi sage advice on how to make a mug rug with invisible thread using free motion quilting on her domestic Bernina. Don't tell anyone but Jacqi hates invisible thread, doesn't do free motion quilting on her Bernina, (though she is an accomplished and award winning long-arm quilter) and is the original inventor of the "mug rug".

Our table is the closest one from this view, we had two new mates at our table, Victoria the chicken lady (see her masterpiece hanging on the chair closest to us) and friend Connie (with their backs to us). Both great additions to the crew. Welcome ladies! And across from them, the next "project runway" finalist, Ellen, possibly working on her neice's wardrobe, the Chanel jacket or who knows what. Whatever it is its gorgeous, I hope that little girl knows how fortunate she is. I wonder if Ellen's three daughters were ever that well dressed.

Here's (clockwise starting at the left) Rhonda, Jacqi, Amy, Gretchen and Jess all hard at it. I don't see any wine glasses on the table, oh yes, there's one by Rhonda and another one to the right my Janome. All burning the midnight oil sewing our hearts out.

And then there's the issue of the ugly slipper, forbidden to set foot outside the building. We won't name names but who would ever think this is attractive footwear? Comfortable yes, but not even in the northwoods of WI is this appropriate even for Walmart, or so I'm told. Cheeze!

Along with our hippo fabric mug rugs (a Jacqi tradition of making a coaster out of fabric and batting, similar to a mini-quilt, approximately 4-5 inches square), (sorry no mug rug pics)many of us made Valori Wells wallets, too cute. More on that later. Thank you Jacqi for a great time. Thank you friends for another memorable bonding weekend!

Friend Jacqi from "Keep Me in Stitches" at IQF Houston, Oct. 30, 2010

2010-10-31T21:21:00.000-05:00

Jacqi's in Houston, Texas this week having a great time seeing all the exhibits and shopping at market for her Appleton, WI quilt shop. She took time out of her busy week to send me this photo of her and my quilt, "Walk of the Cranes" which is a finalist at the International Quilt Festival in Houston this year. Thank you Jacqi! Can't wait to see what you buy at market for the shop! Thanks for thinking of me...love the picture, especially since you're in it!

Sandra Began Event at Butte des Morts Country Club Oct 22-23

2010-10-24T21:30:00.000-05:00

This is my booth from the Sandra Began Shopping Event this past weekend. It was a lovely location with a great crowd. Lots of shoppers on Friday night and Saturday. Had lots of great comments and met some very nice shoppers and exhibitors. I would call it a very successful event. Next year's event is already scheduled for October 14-15, 2011. Mark your calendars for a fun two days of shopping! Check out Sandra Began on Facebook to see a list of unique exhibitors.

SAQA Auction a huge success - "Siberian" sold

2010-10-10T20:39:00.000-05:00

Studio Art Quilters Association has an annual auction of 12 inch square art quilts donated by SAQA members on a voluntary basis. This is the first year I've contributed a piece to the effort. I am happy to say my art quilt, "Siberian" sold to someone from New Jersey, thank you very much. The money raised through this auction goes to help SAQA member fiber artists put on exhibitions and all the costs that go along with it. I believe the money raised this year was over $50,000. Wow! SAQA is a great group, I have learned so much from all the other members who generously share their knowledge and experience in this medium.

Fall is here....so soon

2010-09-26T19:23:00.000-05:00

Although I'm always a bit sad when fall arrives it is the best time for taking pictures. This past week the rain and overcast skies made for a few magnificent photos. Possibly an inspiration in my future.

Wonderful Experience at "Art Harvest", Green Bay Botanical Garden, even with the RAIN!

2010-09-12T19:18:00.000-05:00

Saturday morning, 5:30 am....not quite pouring rain.....hmmmm, stay home? or take a chance on surviving the "Art Harvest" art fair at Green Bay Botanical Garden? I had put a lot of time and work into preparing for this day so I decided I was going to go for it. My husband was not real excited about joining me on this 'adventure'. But, he had said he would be my assistant for this event so he grudgingly came along.

The day did not start out well, the rain continued through our setup, which went pretty smoothly. I didn't put out as much of my work as originally intended due to the wet conditions, so much of it stayed packed up or in the car. I was very happy that I had taken the extra time in the last days before the show to compile a portfolio, this came in very handy with all the photos I had taken of my artwork, press releases, bio and artist statement. All the pages were in protective sleeves so nothing was harmed by the weather.

Though the visitor turnout was less than desirable, I met some wonderful vendors who shared some valuable insight about other quality shows they participate in. The staff at GBBG was excellent, they fed us, had live music and the grounds are outstanding, with this event held in the Magnolia Garden!

An added bonus is that the Art Harvest vendors are judged and the top three are awarded ribbons and prizes. I was very honored to be the "First Place" Recipient for Artistic Excellence. This was especially memorable because the judges were Donald Taylor, Adjunct Associate Professor of Art and F. William Bohne, Professor of Art, both from St. Norbert College in De Pere. These two wonderful gentlemen were so much fun to talk with and gave me some direction on where to show my work. My day was made by them.

It was so nice to see some of my family and friends come out on the less than perfect day (weatherwise), and also to meet new friends. I really did enjoy the experience and can list a handful of great things that happened that day that made it so worthwhile for me.

More Cranes

2010-08-22T21:14:00.000-05:00

Friday I finished "Gawking Cranes" (above) just in the nick of time to replace
"Walk of the Cranes", which I had to take down, unattach from stretcher bars, attach a binding, hanging sleeve, and label, and ship off to Houston to arrives there by Wednesday, August 25 for the Internation Quilt Festival. Whew, got that done!

Now its on with preparation for the Green Bay Botanical Garden "Art Harvest" on September 11. This is a juried art fair put on by the gardens with food and beverages, a plant sale and free admission to the gardens. Its worth the trip for that alone. If you've never been to the gardens you really should see them several times throughout the year, they are gorgeous and their plant sales are great! Art Harvest is from 9am to 5pm. For more information check out their website at http://www.gbbg.org/

I'm also hoping to see Nancy Pierce, a friend and fellow fiber artist who also is an extremely talented and award winning photographer who will also be exhibiting at the fair. Hope to see some other friends there too.

Nice Article on my Solo Show in Local Paper

2010-08-15T18:18:00.000-05:00

A week ago Kara Patterson, a reporter from the Post Crescent interviewed me for the Sunday, August 8, 2010 Newspaper Article on my solo exhibit through the Appleton Art Center. She did a great job writing and I was very impressed with how good she made me look. They included a full color photo of my "Walk of the Cranes" which can be seen on my website, http://www.patbishop.info/. (the online article does not include that image)

Wish I could write like that!

Simply dyeing...successfully

2010-08-04T21:29:00.000-05:00

The results of my simply dyeing were very successful. These are all damask linens. Just about everything I dyed looked very good. My process was to soak all my fabric to be dyed in soda ash plus water. See the previous post for ratio of soda ash per gallon of water. Soak the fabric 20 minutes minimum before applying the dye. The dye powder was mixed 2Tbsp. of dye powder per 8oz. of water. Dyes were put into squirt bottles. Dye was applied to the fabrics randomly. Squirt until it feels right, mixing colors at will. No adding soda ash water after 20 minutes. Just 1) Soak 2) Squirt 3) Set out in sun for 3-4 hours 4) Let sit 24 hours 5) Rinse in cool water 6) Wash in washer with small amount of Synthropol. Also prewash all fabric in Synthropol before soaking.

I'm using a "not so great" camera so my pictures don't do the fabric justice.

I've been dying to dye...today was that day.

2010-08-01T20:43:00.000-05:00

This past winter I did some microwave dyeing and snow dyeing but I've been itchin' to get outside and do some garage dyeing. Today was that day! I've been collecting damask and misc. fabrics on a continual basis at garage sales and thrift stores, but my storage area for these PFD(prepared for dyeing) fabrics has been overflowing. When I bring home a load of fabric I immediately wash them in synthropol so I know everything I have is ready to dye.

The pic above is four separate damask napkins overlapped with different color dye squirted on each napkin as it was laid down on plexiglass. It looks better in real life, really. All fabric was first soaked in soda ash water 20 minutes(soda ash, also known as sodium carbonate is purchased at the local Fleet Farm store in the swimming pool supply area) before being placed wet on the plexiglass.

I haven't dyed fabric outside for over a year. I wanted to do it yesterday, but the overcast skies and humidity changed my mind. Today seemed like perfect dyeing weather, 80 degrees, no wind, sunny with low humidity. The temperature outside should be at least 70, the higher temperature helps the dyes do their magic.

Dyeing is always a good excuse to clean the garage and for some reason I don't mind cleaning the garage when I know I'm going to be dyeing that day.

Next I mixed 3 gallons of warm water in a 5 gallon bucket with about 2 cups of soda ash powder. Once that is dissolved (about 5 minutes) I add as much fabric as can comfortably fit in the bucket with enough room to get saturated, unfolding the fabrics and stirring occasionally with a paint stir stick. Fabric should soak at least 5 minutes, I usually try for at least 20 minutes. Longer than that is not a problem, you can leave it sit in the water for a couple days I would think.

Then I fixed myself a soda, turned on the radio, brought up barstool from the basement, put on my apron, mask, gloves and glasses and starting mixing dyes. This seems to be the most time consuming part after cleaning the garage, but it is fun too. You need to wear a mask when mixing the dyes only, in their powder form they can be very dangerous. Once mixed there is no problem.

I had six colors already pre-mixed and waiting in the downstairs fridge, I've saved them for up to 12 months and had acceptable results as long as they are refrigerated. If you leave them out unrefridgerated they only last about two weeks they say. I mixed up six more colors so I'd have a good selection to choose from today. (Most fiber reactive dyes and synthropol are purchased from Pro-Chem, some dyes from Dharma Trading, both online dyeing suppliers with tons of fun items to pick from). I also used Urea to help the dyes dissolve, this can also be purchased from Pro-Chem or Dharma Trading.

Some of my favorite colors are: Bronze, Chartreuse, Bright Blue, Navy and Gunmetal, Basic Red and Scarlet, but I've got about two dozen different dye powders to choose from. If you are just starting out, and you don't want to spend a fortune you should go for just some basics colors (fuschia, turqoise, bright orange, black and sun yellow I think) and Ann Johnston's book, Color by Accident, get the book first, it tells you what colors you need. The dyes may seem expensive but they go a long way and have a long shelf life. You could also share with a friend and split the cost. I use squirt bottles purchased from Prochem and from a local Harbor Freight store. I've also used honey squeeze bottles, hair color squeeze bottles(not sure where I got those :-).

Using Ann Johnston's dye books, Andria Buffington's book and my own experience I set out to dye massive quantities of fabric. The true results will be evident tomorrow after I rinse and wash everything. Tomorrow will tell if the color sticks. I tried winging it today, I'm a Melody Johnson "wannabe", if she can define her own method, so can I. I'm a big girl now, you know! I may have to eat crow if it all washes down the drain.

With my show in progress, I can now focus on other things. Dyeing was on my "to do" list, but it was supposed to be "after" I finish my replacement for "Walk of the Cranes". I need to come up with a substitute for this piece at the American National Bank Gallery show as the aforementioned piece "Cranes" is going to Houston Internal Quilt Festival near the end of August. I worked on it yesterday so I don't feel too bad about dyeing fabric today.

This is charmeuse silk on plexiglass, squirted with bright blue, bronze, chartreuse and navy I think, one edge tipped up to let the dye flow a bit, and then put out in the sun to heat set (hopefully) and dry. This I've done before and it worked great.

Stay tuned, I will report if I was successful with "Pat's Personal Lazy Dye" method after everything is rinsed and dried. Then I will share my method, if it worked. Cross your fingers, I am.

Opening Reception - My Name in Lights!

2010-07-25T21:26:00.000-05:00

Egret Territory and Storm

My Mom Viewing Vernazza

Thursday, July 22, 2010 was my solo show reception at American National Bank Fox Cities. Friends, family and others stopped by to view my work and wish me well. It was an exciting night for me to see all of my artwork up at one time in a very classy environment. The show runs Monday - Friday from 9am - 5pm through September 10. There are 26 pieces on display. If you stop by please drop me a note, I'd love to hear what you thought. Thank you to all those that attended and to American National Bank Fox Cities and Appleton Art Center for the lovely evening. I truly enjoyed it!

I'm Celebrating!

2010-07-17T20:39:00.000-05:00

Saturday evening, 6pm I'm feeling ready for my solo show with the reception coming up this Thursday evening. Today I have everything finished, labeled, prepared to hang except for a few minor issues. It all needs to be there by Tuesday at noon to be hung and I have it all sitting in the spare bedroom ready and waiting. Its a gooood feeling so I'm celebrating with a glass of wine sitting on the deck with a book and my feet up. Hope to see lots of my friends and family there! The Gallery at American National Bank, 2200 N. Richmond Street, Appleton, WI 54911, Thursday, July 22, 5:30 - 7:30pm

View of Vernazza

2010-06-20T20:51:00.000-05:00

This is the completed "View of Vernazza". (40" w x 30" h) This was over a year in the making due to stops and starts, distractions and uncertainties. I like the blockiness and simplicity of it. Glad it is finally finished. If you recall from a long ago post this was made in 7 vertical strips that were then sewn together after everything was pieced or fused. I started out piecing it but ended up with a lot of fusing because I was getting bored with all the piecing. Machine quilting was done after all the 7 strips were connected. Fabrics include: hand dyed, silks, cottons, unknown and recycled fabrics. From the photo (courtesy of Mike and Carleen Baum's honeymoon photo), I made a full size cartoon out of lightweight fusible interfacing with the drawing done on the fusible side of the interfacing. This was my master pattern that I then cut into the 7 strips and constructed one strip at a time. I also did a copy of this pattern onto clear vinyl to be used as an overlay as needed to make sure things were lining up. When all was said and done I didn't stick that close to the pattern, changes were made along the way to simplify the composition and make it easier to construct.

Composition changes

2010-06-14T21:12:00.000-05:00

Which composition do you like better? The top photo is how this piece looks right now. This abstract was totally pieced and quilted. After putting it back on the design wall I decided I didn't like the two strips (yellow and red) in the lower left corner that looked like they were coming out of the pale green bottle shape on the left. By fusing a black scrap over the strips (second photo) it breaks up the awkward distracting bold strips that were coming out of the bottle. In fact I think I will use a bigger scrap to make the strips into small squares. I also prefer the more complex black shape that the change creates. I may do something about that large yellow section near the center top, its asking for something but I'm not quite sure what yet.

Even though I thought this piece was finished I can go back and make some major or minor changes by fusing on new fabric and then I will quilt over that area. This is one of five pieces I did over another long home retreat weekend.

With my solo show coming up in July I'm starting to panic and think I won't have enough artwork. At last count I should have at least 25 pieces.

Matisse Exhibit at Chicago Art Institute

2010-06-09T20:57:00.000-05:00

'Bathers by a River' Henri Matisse 102" x 154"

(this is one of his largest paintings, its huge, that's 8.5 feet high by 13 feet wide) After seeing this painting in person I was very much in awe, maybe it was the size, colors or the way it was segmented. I'm not sure. The figures are very statuesque and strong. The cool colors are calming.

Tuesday, June 8, 2010 the SAQA WI-IL Regional group met at the Chicago Art Institute to view the Matisse Exhibit. To see a pic of the SAQA group members that attended the exhibit go to http://www.saqailwi.blogspot.com/

Described by the Chicago Art Institute

"the works Matisse produced between late 1913 and 1917 are among his most demanding, experimental, and enigmatic. While these works have typically been seen as unrelated responses to the influences of Cubism and World War I, this exhibition illustrates the deep connections between them and their critical role in an ambitious, cohesive project of developing what Matisse called “the methods of modern construction”—a process in which the act of creation itself was the main focus."

Henri Matisse started out his adult life as a lawyer but while recovering from appendicitis his mother brought him art supplies and he was hooked. He went back to art school (to his father's great disappointment) and became a painter, printer, sculptor. Later in his life when he was unable to stand at an easel he cut colored paper and arranged them. In 1953 a year before his death he created "The Snail" (below)

While at the Chicago Art Institute we viewed many amazing paintings, some of my favorites were Georgia O'Keefe's. I'll post the ones I saw another day.

If you get the chance to visit the Art Institute don't pass up the chance, I could spend a week or two there easily.

View of Vernazza

2010-05-31T17:56:00.001-05:00

Vernazza, Italy - This is another view for the source of my "Italian Apartments" courtesy of my daughter, Jessica, who asked the newlyweds where they had taken the picture of the apartments in Italy.

I had a lightbulb moment Saturday. I was working on my "Italian Apartments", now renamed "View of Vernazza", when I recalled a comment someone made on my piece by 'either name". She said, "those are interesting colors you chose for this piece". Well, it dawned on me that she had not seen my inspiration photo taken by my nephew Mike and his bride Carleen when they were on their honeymoon in Italy. The buildings are actually pretty close to the colors I picked for them. Please note the pink, terra cotta, dirty lime and orange in the photo above. I'd love to go there, wouldn't you? Ouuuuuu, the colors.....ahhhh...

Follow up to Retreat Weekend

2010-05-26T22:04:00.000-05:00

I thought I would follow up on my thoughts of my Weekend Retreat at home. I think it was very successful, I spent three and a half days in my sewing room/studio. I worked on my Italian Apartments and am very close to finishing, completed a Field #2 (almost) and I removed my "Cranes" from their canvas. Telling myself I was on retreat really helped me focus, the "Do Not Disturb" sign reminded me every time I walked out the door why I was in there in the first place.

Having spent that much time in the studio made me less fearful of going in there, i.e. fear of failure. Do you ever feel like you'd just rather just not deal with the frustration of trying to be successful in what you create? I have two quotes on my sewing room wall from the book "Art and Fear":

"Uncertainty is the essential, inevitable and all-pervasive companion to your desire to make art. And tolerance for uncertainty is the prerequisite to succeeding."

"Art is like beginning a sentence before you know its ending. The risks are obvious; you may never get to the end of the sentence at all--or having gotten there, you may not have said anything."

I just need to read these quotes once in awhile.

This weekend we are going up north to the cottage so I have packed my Janome and the Apartments along with another unfinished temporarily abandoned project that I will take another look at and determine if I want to slash and re-connect. If I do, I'll take pictures first. Although my experience with the "Reject Reframed" was frustrating I was satisfied with the result and I did enjoy the process (some of the time) so I'm game for some more frustration.

I need to find out what those Italian Apartments are called or what city they are near, I'm tired of calling that piece my "Italian Apartments".

Reject to Reframe

2010-05-23T20:46:00.000-05:00

Good bye REJECT!

This is a rejected piece that I had jammed under my work table so no one else could see it. I'm embarrassed to even show it now. Two years ago it was originally dyed after applying potato dextrin resist. Then I went at it with textile paints and markers, then did some machine quilting. At that point I was totally disgusted with it and tossed it under the table. I didn't throw it in the garbage because there were small bits of it I still liked.

After reading about cutting up your rejects on the SAQA yahoo group I decided I was ready to give it a go. I was unsure what to do because I had already quilted it so it was kind of thick to piece back together. I solved that problem by not joining any of the quilted pieces to each other.

REFRAME

This is my result. It really looks better in person, you can't see the part I like the best, which is the light strips that go vertically. They look like a topographical map from the potato dextrin resist area.

Weekend Retreat

2010-05-15T21:03:00.000-05:00

In order to get some creative work done I decided to take Friday off from my real job and spend the weekend in my "studio" working. I even brought home a "Do Not Disturb" sign from the office to hang on my door, (mostly for my own sake, to remind me I'm here to FOCUS). Truman (my dog) can't read so it won't keep him away. My husband is helping by shaking his finger at me when I'm having a snack or talking on the phone.

I am imagining I am up in Door County at Bjorklunden at Jacqi's retreat and all that's on my agenda is sewing. I started Thursday right after Oprah and spent all day and evening Friday here (did take a break to mow the lawn as it was a hay field after all the rain we've gotten). Today - Saturday, husband and I did a few rummage sales because it was Greenville town-wide rummage day. But after about 45 minutes of that we weren't finding any bargains so we came back home and back to my retreat.

I'm getting a lot done. My Italian apartments (photo above) is now in three layers and I'll be quilting it tonight and tomorrow. I started and finished a piece on Thursday night/Friday morning. Tomorrow I want to take a reject balled up under my work table and cut it apart and make something beautiful out of it. That's the goal and the plan, we'll see what the result is. If its good I will post a before and after pic. Cross your fingers. Now.....back to work....

I have a Website!

2010-05-10T12:55:00.000-05:00

As of last week my website is complete! I am very excited to be able to now have a professional web presence. With an upcoming solo exhibit coming this summer, it seemed like a good time to launch my site.

Holly Knott http://www.hollyknott.com/ is the web designer who built the site for me. She came highly recommended by many Studio Art Quilt Association members and specializes in artists' websites. I am extremely happy with the work she did. Holly is very organized, gives honest advice and had my site up in three weeks.

She helped me realize my vision of what I was looking for in a website. Please check it and out and give me your honest feedback. I'm always open to suggestions. Thanks! http://www.patbishop.info/

Walk of the Cranes takes 1st Place

2010-04-21T20:24:00.003-05:00

Walk of the Cranes - April 23-25 Secura Insurance Companies 30th Fine Art Exhibition, Appleton, WI. Today I was very excited to learn that this piece was awarded 1st Place at the Annual Secura Show. This is the first public showing of the Cranes so I was ecstatic to have it so well received.

Best of show was an oil painting "Dusk in the Country" by Betty Proper, well known Appleton artist. Her painting was a picturesque farm house that glowed with warmth. 2nd Place went to a fiber artist friend, Sandy Schilawski with her abstract, dimensional "Space Regatta". 3rd place went to a photographer, Sarah Bretall, the photograph was of a horse in his stable, titled "Old Paint". Tim Riley, director of the AAC said it was very difficult to pick the pieces for the show with over 200 entries that needed to be pared down to 75. The juror for the show was Charles Mitchell, well know Wisconsin artist.

We are very thankful to Secura Insurance Companies for this annual opportunity they provide to the Fox Valley public and artists. If you go to see the show you will be pleasantly rewarded with some very impressive artwork from the region's many talented artists.

This exhibition is open to the public and held on the campus of:

SECURA Insurance Companies

2401 S. Memorial Drive, Appleton, WI

Friday, April 23 4PM - 8PM

Saturday, April 24 11AM - 5PM

Sunday, April 25 11AM - 3PM

1PM - 3PM Reception

2PM Presentation of Awards

Emerald Fall

2010-03-07T19:17:00.000-06:00

I love leaves, trees, walking in the woods. That was my inspiration for "Emerald Fall". This piece was randomly pieced without a preconceived idea of how it was going to progress. Finished size 30"W x 24"H mounted on a canvas frame. Materials were basically cottons and silks.

My Dali

2010-03-02T17:00:00.002-06:00

"My Dali" was inspired by the surrealistic style of Salvadore Dali. This piece was entered into the "Quilting is Art" event sponsored by Milwaukee Public Television, Patched Works of Elm Grove and Bigsby Sewing Center of the Milwaukee area. All entries will be displayed at the 2010 Greater Milwaukee Realtors Home and Garden Show (March 19-27, 2010).

The purpose of this contest is to showcase quilting as an art form as part of the 2010 Channel 10 Great TV Auction. Work is judged on overall creativity, representation of the theme, construction and innovation in approach and design.

Its Coming...."Keep Me In Stitches" Appleton, WI new! New! New quilt shop!

2010-02-28T18:50:00.000-06:00

Daughter Jess and I got a sneak peek inside the quilt shop, "Keep Me In Stitches" coming soon to Appleton's North Richmond Street(near the intersection of Hwy 47 and 41). We are very excited for the opening coming very soon. Jacqi has some fresh ideas and spring fresh fabrics to entice you. (the pictures don't do the fabrics justice). Things are looking good! And there is a great place for lunch right next door, gyros, subs, burgers, dogs.

Olympic Snowboarder quilt for Kenyan People

2010-02-19T13:52:00.004-06:00

Hannah Teter, USA Olympic snowboarder has her heart in a very fine place. Hannah helped to design a quilt to be auctioned off with proceeds going to benefit of the people of Krindon, Kenya to assist them with water filtration, sanitation and housing. You can see Hannah sitting on her quilt in her room at the Olympic Village. The quilt design shows Hannah holding her snowboard with people of the village of Krindon, Kenya looking on. The quilt is made from totally organic materials and was created by Amp Energy Juice, a subsidiary of PepsiCo. Hannah had previously started a charity dedicated to the village raising money through a maple syrup business "Hannah's Gold Vermont Maple Syrup". Good for you Hannah!

Rust-Tex Collection Exhibit Good News!

2010-02-19T13:01:00.008-06:00

My piece "She #3" is on its way to Lois Jarvis, curator of the Rust-Tex Exhibit. This is the first time one of my art quilts will travel across the "pond". This exhibit will premier at the Spring "International Quilt Festival" in Chicago April 16-18, 2010. It will also be displayed at the "Festival of Quilts" in Birmingham, England August 20-23, 2010. To learn more about the "Festival of Quilts" which is purported to be the biggest quilt show in Europe go to: http://www.twistedthread.com/

To learn more about rust-dyed fabrics visit Lois's website http://www.rust-tex.com/.

Rust dyed Fabric Exhibit

2010-02-04T21:14:00.004-06:00

From now thru Sunday, Feb. 7 you can view all entries into the Rust-Tex competition. All entries must have included rust-dyed fabric. Viewing is limited from now thru Sunday. There are over 80 entries but only 24 pieces will be selected to be exhibited at international venues. Go to the Rust-Tex site http://rust-tex.com/TW/tiki-index.php?page=Member_home Two of my pieces from the She Series have been entered. See some very nice pieces from very talented fiber artists using rust dyed fabric.

2010-02-03T17:31:00.004-06:00

The "Art Garage" 1409 Main Street, Green Bay, WI is hosting a reception Thursday, February 4, 2010 from 6pm to 9pm. My piece "You've got the Beat" was juried into this exhibit. Below is an exerpt from the ARTLINES newsletter from Cedar Center Arts, Inc. and the ARTgarage:

"Art Meets Heart" Exhibit with a Purpose
The first juried exhibit at the ARTgarage will be on display from noon, Thurs., Feb. 4, until closing on Sat., Feb. 27. In a unique collaboration with Bellin Hospital, the ARTgarage is helping to draw attention to the importance of hearts - physically, emotionally, spiritually, and metaphorically. Judges for the exhibit were Graeme Reid, Assistant Director, Museum of Wisconsin Art, and Andrea Werner, Director, Bellin Hospital Heart & Vascular Center. Thirty-one art pieces include a painting of Bob Marley with dreadlocks wrapped around a heart, a photo of hands resting on a pregnant belly and forming the shape of a heart, another photo of a heart image in latte' foam, a drawing of a young child after heart surgery, and a splat of red paint on a white board with the title, "Please Don't Throw My Heart Against the Wall." Interspersed between the art pieces are digital (and artistic) images of actual hearts...veins, arteries and all.Special thanks to the 48 artists from throughout Northeast Wisconsin who submitted entries; the following were chosen to have work in the exhibit: Leah Abrahams, Grace Adler, Diane Allen, Cynthia Barnes-Johnson, Pat Bishop, Kara Counard, Bonnie De Arteaga, Mindy Frank, Barb Halron, Brian Hibbard, Arda Ishkhanian, Molly Johnson, Lucy Bea Jost, Daniel Klewer, Peter Koury, Donna Lindboe-Trupin, Tricia Matthew, Sandy Melroy, George Ouimetter, Heather Peterman, Jeanne Pfister, Mike Riley, Roberta Scherrer, Drew Schmidt, Chris Style, and Joan White. Thanks, too, to the sponsors who made this event possible: Cardiology Associates of Green Bay, Green Bay Cardiothoracic and Vascular, General and Vascular Surgery of Green Bay, Surgery Specialists of Green Bay, General and Vascular Consultants, Green Bay Radiology, Radiology Chartered, Bellin Hospital Heart & Vascular Center, Toshiba, and the ARTgarage. Volunteers who have put their "heart" into this project are Rachel Carstens and Carrie Dorski, who organized all the entries and coordinated the judging process; Ann Gray, Barb Halron, Lindi Kuritz, who decorated for the opening reception; Jenna Neumann, who painted the red wall in the gallery and helped organize the exhibit; Melissa Sinitsky, who typed up all the printed materials for the show. Staff at both Bellin Hospital and the ARTgarage earn applause for doing extra tasks, as well as members of the ARTgarage Board of Directors, who initiated and coordinated the entire project.A public opening is scheduled at 6-9 pm on Thursday, Feb. 4, with the announcement of award winners at 7 pm. Refreshments and harp music, provided by Nancy Watts, will round out the evening. Parking is available along Cedar and Grove streets and in lots off Main Street. Watch for heart-shaped parking signs.

I hope to see you there!

Appleton Art Center Members Exhibition

2009-12-28T15:50:00.002-06:00

AAC Membership Exhibition and Sale opened December 4, 2009 and runs through January 16, 2009. Three of my "She Series" pieces are included, they always look so nice when hung for a show.

One of my favorite local artists, Leonard Nagler has pieces in the exhibit. He has won numerous awards and works in oils. Two other fiber artists have work in the exhibit also, one of them being Jeanne Pfister, a friend from Kaukauna, WI.

Take some time if you get a chance to visit the exhibit, there's lots to see. Gallery hours: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm; Saturday 10am-4pm; Closed Sundays and Holidays. http://www.appletonartcenter.org/

Flying Sock Monkeys

2009-12-05T19:33:00.003-06:00

Just added two new members to the Sock Monkey family. Original members are Ralph and Fred. Carl and Carlita are the newest members of the family. I made all the big guys but Carlita was a poor waif who came in the mail this week from a good friend. This post is in honor of my Flying Monkey friends, you know who you are.

Check out Laurie Ceesay's new Website

2009-11-30T20:53:00.004-06:00

Laurie is a friend who used to live in Appleton but now lives in Menominee, Michigan. Her brand new website showcases her cool pop art fashionista portraits and more. To me her quilts are reminiscent of the colorful playful art of the late sixties. Her work is bright, bold, exciting and like nothing else out there in the world of art quilts. My favorites are: "1974: Good Hair", "Dandelion Fairy 1" and "Pop Art Princess". "Pop Art Princess" makes me think of Gustav Klimt's "The Kiss". Take a peek, it will be worth your while. http://www.laurieceesay.com/ What's your favorite?

New Appleton, WI quilt shop!

2009-11-28T20:47:00.004-06:00

Keep your eyes open for a new quilt shop coming to north Appleton in Spring of 2010. Jacqi is the shop owner and sounds like she is going to have a fun shop with some exciting new ideas. The shop will be located near the intersection of Hwy 41 and Hwy 47, an easy to find and convenient location.

Quilts=Art=Quilts

2009-11-15T14:36:00.003-06:00

Quilts=Art=Quilts exhibition currently at the Schweinfurth Art Center in Auburn, New York can be seen in part here. http://www.schweinfurthartcenter.org/exhibits/current.html Very stunning works, mine did not get accepted and I can see why. I am very inspired.

Artist in Residence at the historic Pfister Hotel in Milwaukee

2009-11-15T10:37:00.000-06:00

This past week I was in Milwaukee at the Pfister Hotel, http://www.thepfisterhotel.com/ for a seminar for work. As an added bonus I discovered that The Pfister Hotel has an Artist in Residence Program in their hotel on the lobby level. If you are in the area I highly recommend you pass through the gorgeous lobby and stop at the Artist in Residence area. In my opinion the Pfister is worth a look on its own merit, but this exhibit will hopefully intrigue you to take a peek as it did me. The current artist in residence is Reginald Baylor from Milwaukee. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zHlWzEYxOdo

His method of painting involved segregating small sections of the canvas with a 1/8 inch line. He meticulously separates each segment like a "paint by number" kit and assigns numbers associated with paint colors to these areas. Then he additionally paints the lines between each segment, I think by taping off the areas for a second time (I'm not sure about this). His approach is very intriguing and something I can relate to as an art quilter. I find his subject matter is fresh and alive. You may want to check out his website to see more of his portfolio. http://www.reginaldbaylor.com/index_main.html

Dyeing for some new fabric

2009-11-08T18:08:00.005-06:00

Two weekends ago I did some microwave dyeing with Procion dyes. It was so quick and easy. I dyed some of my damask napkins and misc. fabric. The colors are lucious, but not showing up well on my photo. The pale one between the brown and grey/blue is really a nice lime. Instructions can be found at: http://www.cottonclub.com/dying.htm The only thing I did differently was use 4 times the dye powder and extend the microwave time x 2. My dyeing microwave is one of those teenie tiny ones w/o a turntable. I would microwave 4 minutes, then rotate the container and do it again.

She #6 preview

2009-11-01T17:05:00.003-06:00

I've got the figure complete, now its just a matter of filling in. I'm happy with it so far. This piece will be about 48" across and 48 high. It will take some time to get the remainder pieced. What do you think? I think she looks a little Peruvian.

She #6 progress

2009-10-28T12:18:00.004-05:00

I've been working on #6 in the She Series. This one is bigger than all the rest and I'm using black and red for my main figure. I've got both my sewing machines set up with light thread on one and dark thread on the other. Will post a pic tonight or tomorrow. I'm having fun!

Robert Genn

2009-10-09T13:04:00.002-05:00

I subscribe to Robert Genn's twice weekly inspirations. Give it a try if you are a wannabe artist, he has good advice in all areas that can relate to whatever your artistic passion is. Click on the link to the right for a taste of his wisdom. I often learn something new or am reminded of something I once knew.

Twisted Sisters

2009-08-09T19:32:00.003-05:00

A few weeks ago our group of girlfriends had our annual summer weekend getaway. There are six of us, some of us have been getting together for more than 10 years. We always have a good time talking stupid, eating, some drinking (not so much anymore), playing games, and other girlie type stuff. We used to camp in tents, then campers, now its mostly cottages or hotels. We all have alias's so as not to get our true selves in trouble.

This year we had a gift exchange where everyone had to find, steal, barter, make, purchase from thrift shops, rummage sales, whatever a gift for each person using the first and last intials of the giftee's "real" name. I got a lot of Purple Beads and no Peanut Butter, which I was expecting. Also I received a Preying mantis Bug, Pear Bath soap and other items I can't recall at the moment. It was inexpensive and a lot of fun.

The She Series #3 and #5

2009-08-09T19:04:00.007-05:00

The She Series continues. The first one is #3 (16"x23")that I finally got a good picture of today. I really like the colors, shape and strength of this one. I like how what I see as the arms reach from edge to edge.

Finishing up #5 today, it just needs binding but I've taken a picture anyway. This is the first time I've taken photos of my pieces outside on an overcast day. This is supposed to give you the best light. I'm not sure if I agree or not. Anyway, I wasn't crazy about the colors of #5 when I was putting it together, but now I really like it.

I've totally enjoyed making these small pieces. The final one, #5 is 24"x35", not so small. I've developed an easy binding method that only requires one sewn seam, the rest is glued (don't tell anybody), its not quilt-like to glue. Shhhhhhh!

I'm pretty proud of myself for getting these done. Yeah for me!!

Now I think I'll get back to my Italian apartment view that's been hanging on the design wall for about 5 months, way too long.

Eat This, Not That

2009-06-29T10:22:00.001-05:00

Eat This, Not That - The No-Diet Weight Loss Solution From Men's Health Check this article for the eight foods you should eat everyday.

Shared via AddThis

She #1 in a Series

2009-06-07T20:15:00.004-05:00

She #1 (12" x 20") completed today. I'm really on a roll, that's three completed pieces in three days. This turned out better than I had originally thought, in fact it was headed for the scrap pile at one point. I'm really enjoying the simplicity of these pieces.

Today's my daughter's birthday, she's 31. Happy Birthday Jess! I love you!

She's Back!

2009-06-06T16:40:00.004-05:00

Well I actually did it! #2 in the She Series is complete! I'm having fun breaking in my new sewing machine, a Janome 6600 that I purchased while down at Chicago's International Quilt Festival in April. The extra room in the throat area really does make a huge difference. I'm also liking the threader, thread cutter, tacking and quietness compared to my beloved Bernina 1260.

Tomorrow I will attack She #4 in the Series. There are a total of 5 in this Series with #5 being the largest and most complex, but probably the most interesting also. I'm pooped now and done sewing for the day, ....maybe.

Inspired To Get Back at It! As in Art!!!

2009-06-06T11:01:00.006-05:00

I've been inspired by my new Internet friend, Barbara Strobel Landor from Plymouth, WI who is an extremely talented art quilter AND diligent blogger. Check her out at: bslartquilts.blogspot.com I was amazed when I found her and realized I had never heard of her since she is so talented and lives so close by. She has gotten me determined to continue writing about my creative life. So here goes again...

In May, 2009 my guild, Darting Needles Quilt Guild of Appleton, WI hosted Cynthia Corbin from Washington State. We had three days of classes with Cynthia and it was a real treat. Check out her site at cynthiacorbin.com. Besides being a talented artist Cynthia is so down to earth, sweet, funny, kind and a real inspiration to me. I have been working on the pieces I started in her class and am very excited about the energy it has given me.

Cynthia works in a "seat of the pants" method, where you just go for it with a few rules and see what happens. She is an excellent mentor. If you ever get the chance to work with Cynthia I highly recommend it. She got me started in my very first series. I have been wanting to do more abstract work and feel that I have gotten a handle on it in this beginning series.

This is the third piece I did in my series but its the smallest at about 5 x 7 inches, therefore making it the first candidate for quilting and finishing due to its small size. Its made of scraps of silk mostly and was pieced in a record 15 minutes. Ta da!!! "#4 in the She Series". My goal for today is to work on #2 in the She Series and get it quilted and bound. Very lofty goal for one day, but it doesn't hurt to dream. I'll be back later when I'm finished. Today is a great day to spend indoors anyway due to the gloomy chilly weather. And--- I'm proud of myself for getting this post done. Yeah for me!!! Thanks Barbara.

Not Your Grandmother's Quilt Show February 21 - May 10

2009-02-18T20:17:00.005-06:00

If you happen to be in Oshkosh, WI soon, stop in to the Oshkosh Public Museum http://www.oshkoshmuseum.org/exhibits/This_is_Not_Your_Grandmother’s_Quilt.htm to see their brand new exhibit opening this Saturday, February 21 featuring many non-traditional quilt items. If you go to their site you will see one of my quilts that is in the exhibit. "Dog Bone" is featured in the announcement on the museum's website alone with Jeanne Pfister's quilt "Dresden Delite" which won 1st place at the Chicago 2008 International Quilt Festival. You can also stop by on March 21 when their will be a "meet the artist" day. You can also read about it in the Oshkosh Northwestern local newspaper ttp://www.thenorthwestern.com/article/20090215/OSH04/90211130 There will be almost 100 quilts in the show. I'm looking forward to seeing it, the Oshkosh Museum does a great job with their displays.

February 1, 2009 Puerto Vallarta

2009-02-01T12:12:00.006-06:00

At this time of year don't we all think about heading somewhere warm for a few days of relief from the parkas, long underwear, gloves and hats?

Two years ago my husband and I joined our good friends and their son for a winter getaway to Puerto Vallarta. It was sunny with warm ocean breezes and glowing serene sunrises. My photo from the balcony one morning was used as my inspiration for this piece which was great fun to make and conveys the warmth of that relaxing time of breakfast under the beach cabana and afternoons lounging with cocktails and a good book. (Puerto Vallarta 2008 (sold))

Getting the creative match to strike!

2009-01-12T20:47:00.003-06:00

Trying to get back to work in the "studio" after at least a month long absence. Trying to come up with something, anything creative. I have several works in progress that I would love to get off the design wall, but then there is that fear of failure. Well, to heck with it, nothing ventured, nothing gained. Time to get back at it. I will start with some machine quilting using a leaf motif, how original, yuk, yuk.

I've heard you've got to put in the time and eventually you will produce something noteworthy. That's my goal. Time to get started. OK, bye, see ya.

A Week With Nancy Crow

2008-10-16T08:23:00.003-05:00

If you ever get the chance to take a class with Nancy Crow, by all means, DO IT! She is a giving and generous person who really wants you to "get it". It is exhausting because she expects so much from her students, but it is well worth the long days and lack of sleep. Now, I just need to carryover that work ethic to my home studio.

My fiber friend and I drove to Nancy's Timber Frame Barn from Wisconsin on October 4, 2008 to take the Reconstruction Class with Nancy. It was a beautiful time of year to view the autumn colors. The facilities at the Barn are wonderful, the food is delicious and nutritious made by the talented Chef Margaret, Nancy even has her own fabric shop right there in case you "really need" some more fabric. We had a great time, meeting people from all over the country and beyond. We learned a lot about color, value, and design.

AQS - DesMoine, IA Acceptance

2008-09-02T09:54:00.000-05:00

Good news! Just found out "Jack" has been accepted in the brand new AQS Show to be held in DesMoine, Iowa in October. I was thinking about going to this show since it is closer to me than Paducah, but unfortunately it conflicts with the Nancy Crow weeklong workshop I'm taking at the Crow Time Frame Barn during that time instead.

Houston

2008-09-01T21:09:00.006-05:00

I said I would post pics of my 2007 Houston ribbon winners, so here is Dog Bone on the left and Globe Thistle on the right. Dog Bone won an Honorable Mention in the "Art-Abstract, Small" category sponsored by Benartex, Inc. Globe Thistle won Second Place in the "Art-Naturescapes" category sponsored by JWD at the International Quilt Festival. As a first time entrant in this show I was thrilled and honored to just be accepted. I did make the trip to Houston with two other local ribbon winners in 2007. It was amazing that the three of us who knew each other well all won ribbons. I think we were the only individuals from Wisconsin that ribboned in 2007. We had a great time, it was unreal seeing all the famous quilt artists with their quilts at the awards ceremony. If you ever get the chance to go to Houston, I would highly recommend you "just do it!"

Making Progress

2008-08-24T23:25:00.000-05:00

My second post since April of this year. Hopefully the next one won't take so long. I plan to add more photos of my work on a regular basis. "Jack" was my most recent large piece and one I like a lot.

My next post will include photos of the two quilts that I entered in the 2007 IQA Houston show. These quilts will be on exhibit in the Madison, Wisconsin Quilt Expo in mid-September. Check out the show at http://www.wpt.org/quiltexpo.

April 21, 2008

2008-04-21T22:48:00.000-05:00

Day One. Now what. Need to learn about blogging and posting pictures to my blog. My goal with this endeavor is to share my art.