Works in progress: 2 of 13 in a series

Here are two recently completed projects, part of a series of 13 that explores various themes from the American West. 

I’ve been wanting to get out of my comfort zone and introduce new materials into my work, such as rhinestones, beads, fringe or lace. (You can see my new obsession with fringe and metallic thread on these two projects).  Using new materials has opened up new ways of thinking and working, and it has brought more joy and experimentation into my process.

These projects do use traditional patchwork and quilting techniques (for example, hand appliqué), but I don’t want to limit myself to that.  The use of new (to me) materials lends itself to a more “textile art” approach in the sewing room.

As I mentioned, the series touches upon various themes from the American West, where I grew up.  You can see this with my choice of the horse and the cow, for example. These types of “Western” themes are often stereotyped, in my opinion, and I’m trying to see and work with them from a different angle, all the while keeping images and motifs that remain identifiable within the genre.

I've already finished 6 works in the series, but some of them are proving to be a bit tricky to photograph! As soon as I manage to take pictures of them, I'll share them here. :)

In the meantime, if you’d like to learn more about the inspiration and influences behind these projects, check out this video (in French) on YouTube!