Freedom

Approx size: 13” x 13”

You know all the little messages going around in your head? Like the ones that say you can’t do that, or, there’s no time for this, or, what if you waste your time, or make a mistake, or get criticised, or totally MUCK IT UP. Well I wanted to be free of that, and I’m my own worst enemy, believe me. So this week I just made time for absolute FREEDOM from all that and I set out to play.

Aside from a wonderful feeling inside (that is still with me) my day resulted in this little piece. I started with double batting and a backing. I had a rough idea of the image I was going to make, and so I trialed scraps of fabrics for the sky, water, boat, and sail. (There, I told you what it was, so you don’t need to embarrass me by asking). Next I placed a piece of navy sheer polyester on top and started free motion stitching with cotton thread. An hour later I brought it outside and blasted it with the heat gun until the sheer melted away. Ahhhhh. My favourite technique at the moment. That’s it, no paint, and the binding is only pinned on at the moment, but you don’t know that.

Oh yes, the spiral. I’ve used it before as a symbol of growth, which I hope I’m working on. I think it also holds the spark of freedom today. Hop on board!

Fabrics are a mix of hand dyed, batik, commercial, and an African print for the boat. The pieces are neither fused, nor sewn. Only the top stitching holds them in place.

Here is a close up: