Tuesday, May 15, 2012

Nedra's "Mystery Lady"


When the new theme was announced, I thought of mystery novels first but wanted to venture beyond that interpretation of the word.  I thought of songs with the word mystery in them and remembered a song by Billy Ocean called Mystery Lady which I love.  I then pictured a lovely woman with dark flowing hair and 
downturned eyes.  I found a painting that almost perfectly portrayed the mystery lady I envisioned.  Ronnie Biccard is the artist who painted the "Goddess of the Sea" which became my inspiration for "Mystery Lady".  I have actually been in touch with her, received her permission to use her painting and post my version of it. 
I had recently viewed an on-line tutorial using white crayons as a resist in fabric dying and I thought I could use that technique to recreate the look of the painting.  I did try the technique and it worked, well sort of.  I made the mistake of ironing the piece and the crayon lines became gray instead of white.  I redrew them many times before the piece was finished.  However, when I layered the tulle over the sky and hair to try to get the right colors, the lines disappeared.  I used the satin stitch to emphasize them.  I am pleased with the overall effect and look of the piece.  I do think it is better seen in person as the lighting in the photo is unbalanced despite trying many different lighting options.

It was a great learning experience though as I used several new materials and techniques; crayons, thread, tulle, paint and crystals were used to complete the look.  I started a blog called the Quilted Giraffe where I have posted past 12 X 12's.  I have made 2 or 3 pieces for the previous themes, this one included.  You will find pictures of the other renditions of the themes,  the original Goddess of the Sea and how I created it  and other work of mine at this address.




12 comments:

  1. Nedra, your quilt is breath-taking! I can't wait to get to your blog to read and to see all the other images you mention. You are truly an artist, and you are such an amazingly talented one, such a great addition to our group! Having based two of my MM quilts now on other artists' works, I feel a special connection to you, too! I could rave on and on about the beauties of this quilt, but frankly, I am too eager to get to your other blog!

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    1. You are too kind; thanks for the comments. Is there a way to have my blog posted on the side bar of the MM blog? I'm trying to "advertise" it and increase traffic. I don't know how to do it myself or if I can or should! Thanks!

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  2. What a beautiful quilt Nedra. You are such an amazing artist - as all the Boston gals are. Is it in the water??? I love the flowing hair of your mystery woman and the interplay of the colors. This is simply stunning! I'm going straight to your other blog to see your other renditions! Thanks for sharing.

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  3. The mysterious woman is a choice that would never have entered my mind but it should definitely be amongst our expressions of mystery. Good for you! And I am so pleased you started your blog. However, you should not leave that other winning woman there all by herself. Wonderful experimentation and good results!

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  4. What a wonderful quilt...I really love the expression on her face, is it painted? Very serene. I'm glad that you were able to contact the artist and I hope that she enjoys seeing how her work inspired you.

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  5. Simply Beautiful Nedra! Kudos for all the techniques you worked into this piece and the perseverance to overcome some obstacles. Lovely.

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  6. Nedra,
    Love that you went from mystery books to songs.
    Your lady is just beautiful and thanks for showing the original artwork. Great info about the way the white crayon did and didn't work. We definitely have to go through some experimentation with these 12x12 quilts and I am loving it.
    Sure would love to see it in person!

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  7. This quilt is amazing! I love your interpretation of this image much better than the original. In fact, this is my favorite! Wonderful!!!

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  8. Nedra - What a beautiful piece...so tranquil and filled with peace. Thanks for mentioning the effort you went through to contact the artist, Ronnie Biccard, about using her painting as your stepping off point. As artists we've all got to be aware and respectful of the copyright laws. Great job !

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  9. Nedra, beautiful, tranquil, mystery lady! I appreciate learning about the process you went through with the crayons and tulle. She also could be daydreaming!

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    1. You're so right barbara. Do you think I could use her two reveals in a row??

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  10. This is really beautiful, Nedra!! I just love it!! You really did a wonderful job executing this piece. I would frame it and hand it in my house if I were you!!
    Lovely!

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