I could have recreated the picture or a detail from the picture, but I prefer to give a sense of the image - an artist's impression. I am naturally drawn to value changes, light and shadow as well as positive and negative space. My first step was to select green fabrics from my collection to use as a background and for the leaves. Next I hunted through my hand dyes to find a coral/pink fabric with sufficient contrast to show up against the greens.
I used my photo to trace the shape of the hibiscus flower, but opted to draw my leaves free hand. Although I've been making art quilts for over a decade, I still love the process and appearance of pieced blocks. So, that is what I did for the background. What gives them the artistic flair and makes it hard to distinguish the blocks is how I randomly piece the fabric, busting through the concept of using dark fabrics consistently in one section of the block and light in others.
The next step is to add thread. I will quilt the background and enhance the hibiscus and leaves with thread painting. The final step will be to add french knots at the end of my thread painted stamens.
Oh, Gwyned, it's going to be just stunning! I can't wait to see your finished product!
ReplyDeleteQuilt on, Sista-
Thank you. Isn't anticipation of how a WIP will progress what keeps us motivated. I am just as eager as you to see how this piece finishes. I may have a concept, but never really know what it will look like until it is done.
DeleteI love hibiscus flowers. I am certain that it will be gorgeous when it is completed. Will check back for sure.
ReplyDelete