I am starting a new piece that starts with this tablecloth. I love the detail on it and the simple geometric pattern the cutwork creates. Bad thing about working with pieces like this is taking that first step. To dye or not to dye? to cut or not to cut? Start in the middle or from the outside? Where does the narrative begin?
The good thing about projects like this is that there are always surprises.
heart study, Paula Kovarik, 2012
Long hours of experimenting has produced 8 studies for the new show I am preparing at the Mertie Buckman Levy Gallery. The show opens on Nov 2. Days are short and details mounting up. At some point I just have to say ENOUGH.
I have been accepted into SAQA’s 25th Anniversary exhibition, Earth Stories, which will open at Michigan State University Museum in Spring of 2014. This will be the first time I create work to fit a specific theme with guidelines on size. I am excited about the opportunity and look forward to working on the piece. It is going to be an interesting and exhilirating challenge. The work will travel for 3 years.
Here is the original prospectus statement about the show:
There are many stories of hope across the globe. Both individuals and small groups are working on projects that when added together make a positive impact on increasing the quality of life on this planet. Earth Stories will celebrate the stories of people or projects that enhance the planet, make a significant difference in restoring and/or protecting the environment, increase sustainability and otherwise improve the earth we all occupy.
And my fellow Earth Stories artists (an impressive list!!):
The artists Tim Noble and Sue Webster create wonderful sculptures of junk that cast shadows which are completely surprising (see the work here.) It reminds me that when encountering ideas it is sometimes best to look at them sideways or upside down or from above before coming to a complete understanding.
I am hitting roadblocks in my work. I don't meet the expectations I have set for myself. I don't have the patience to work. I dither and skitter from one to the next without purpose. I make snap judgments that destroy the original idea. Fiber art is by nature a slow process. It requires patience, meditative concentration and skilled, detailed execution. That doesn't work if I am flitting and thrashing.
Perhaps I need to look sideways.
sideways shadows, Paula Kovarik, 2012
Voted in, chosen, juried and invited. Those are some of the words that make me feel good. It's a recognition by peers and an opportunity to show and tell. I just got word that my quilt, Round and Round it Goes, was selected for Quilt National 2013. I am grateful for the recognition, happy to be included and filled with anticipation to see the other works included.
In.
Round and Round It Goes, back, Paula Kovarik, 2012
