I was the first to choose a word for this, our very first quilt challenge blog. Shortly after returning from a workshop on "Earth Honoring Faith" at Ghost Ranch in New Mexico, I selected the word, harmony, as our theme. The Ghost Ranch workshop was the 4th in a 10 year study on ecological issues as seen through the eyes of world-class theologians and ethicists. After weeks of rough sketches on numerous ideas, I chose "Grounded in Harmony" to convey my invigorated reverence for our planet and our connection with all of creation. A hand-dyed fabric, purchased years ago for a yet to be determined "special" purpose, became my background fabric. Using raw edge fusing, I added a tree that embraces the planet with roots. Flowers were added to represent my garden where I go for spiritual enrichment. A stream, using fused tulle, lies below the flowers depicted what I consider to be our most endangered resource, water. The light pouring in on the tree signifies the power within in all of us to protect the planet and all of creation. All of these techniques - raw edge fusing, over-laid tulle and free motion quilting were new to me and thus presented me with my first art quilt challenge.
Carolyn! This quilt is absolutely gorgeous! I am overwhelmed by its beauty, its symbolism, its craftsmanship--everything! Congratulations on choosing not only a wonderful theme, but executing your quilt in such a professional manner.
ReplyDeleteMavens, I am SO sorry for the early reveal! I was trying to edit my post and to change the font and accidentally pushed the wrong button. Maybe we'll all get through this first time around without too many blog goofs!
ReplyDeleteCarolyn, I think it is terribly appropriate that you were the first to post in that you chose the theme. You have made a spectacularly thoughtful piece with skillful execution. I am envious of all your top stitching and other moves novel to you. An inspiration!
ReplyDeleteHi Carolyn,
ReplyDeleteI agree completely with both Alice and Linda, love the symbolism and execution AND that you tried new techniques so successfully. What a great "tease" for the rest of the mavens! My computer died this morning (which caused a major panic attack, I might add! ) when I was checking my emails...ran to the Apple store and got "fixed"...no Mac funeral after all!
Carolyn,
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful quilt! It is so inspiring! Glad you did post first.
Andrea,
Glad you got your computer working right away and it wasn't major.
I just hope we all get them posted tomorrow. This is very exciting!
Your "goof" was fortuitous, in a way, dear Carolyn! Somehow it seems totally appropriate the the first quilt "up" was the one by the theme-chooser! And what a high standard you have set for all of us!
ReplyDeleteI am very impressed with your work. Thoughtful, insightful and beautiful - a masterpiece of harmony. Can't wait to see the others.
ReplyDeleteThank you for posting it.
I have to agree that I am glad you have the first post - this quilt is stunning on so many levels!
ReplyDeleteCarolyn, I can't wait to see this in person! What a lot of thought and work went into it. I think I could stare at it for hours. It is quite a work of art! I am in Lubbock right now on my way to Santa Fe to see our son. I don't know if my Surprise quilt idea will come from there or not. We'll see.
ReplyDeleteCarolyn, When I saw your quilt I really felt I was way out my league. I am so NOT an artist and am so in admiration of those of you that are. Your Harmony is fabulous, meaningful, lovely.........
ReplyDeleteDear favored professional machine quilter, Judy. Wait 'til you see my stitches in person! I need some lessons from you and lots and lots of practice. And, I wish I were on my way to Santa Fe with you!
ReplyDeleteAnd Rita, how "surprising" to be classified an artist! I wish!!!
WOW! Amazing work Mom! This is beautiful. I'm proud of you!
ReplyDeleteKim