Belated Greetings, and an explanation about why my posting is a bit late. Actually my quilt has been ready for a while, but while trying to compose this Blog entry, my computer, iPhone, and digital camera got together and collectively decided to take the day off :-( I've spent hours trying to upload the pix of the quilt (iPhone, camera, computer), and finally had to text (iPhone) the pictures to my sister and have her e-mail them back to me. Arghhhhh ! Anyway ... Here we go !
This quotation (Music is What Feelings Sound Like) is near and dear to my heart. I started piano lessons when I was 6 years old, and started playing the organ in Junior High. Music has always been an integral part of my life, and often, its where I "go" when I need some peace and quiet; when I need to think things out; where I find happiness, joy, consolation, solace.
One of my former organ teachers (truly a Master at his craft), would often tell me to "Play with Passion ! " in other words not just 'play' at the music, but really put my heart and soul into it. I've found this to be really important when I accompany church services.... especially those having to do with what we call "Life Events."
When I'm 'playing' and rendering service to others as a "Liturgical Musician," I'm at my very best. I know the people need comfort, support, encouragement, joy, laughter .... all the emotions that go with the life events we encounter on our journey. I'm able to do that through the graces of God, and the incredibly awesome musicians who have accompanied me on my own personal journey.
In making this quilt, I used my computer (Shreky! ) to word process the quote, then made paper stencils for each of the letters / words. Using "Mystyfuse" and dark blue batik fabric, I was able to construct the words, and adhere them onto the lighter blue background fabric.
I wanted the quilting to be rather ethereal, so kept the stippling pretty tight around the words; then expanded the quilting to include lots of swirls, expanded stippling and meandering. The threads are two of my most favorites: Madeira 30 weight variegated rayon (absolutely yummy !), and Madeira monofilament in the bobbin.
The backing of the quilt... of course was inspired by music :-D
The binding: Pinked raw-edge fabric fused to the back and front of the quilt, and then top stitched, as described in "Fusing Fun !" by Laura Wasilowski
A lovely quilt, Kathy, and so appropriate for YOU. I love your quotation! It is so apt. The quilt itself is simple but dramatic, and as always, your beautiful quilting enhances the entirety of the quilt.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful quilting as usual Kathy!!! Love the simple use of the words and dramatic effect you created!!
ReplyDeleteI love this as I am a piano player too! Playing an instrument from your heart is so different from just playing the notes on the page - it makes the music sing! Wonderful quote!
ReplyDeleteLove your quilt Kathy. And I love music, as well! Very nicely created and beautifully quilted!
ReplyDeletewonderful quote. I play music in my head and heart, I wish my hands could, too. great piece.
ReplyDeleteLove music and at this time in the church year, music is so important. I took lessons but never was accomplished. Now I sing in the choir and enjoy it immensely. Yesterday was really special at church.
ReplyDeleteYour quilt expresses your feelings. We can almost hear the passion coming from you.
Love your piece. Its wonderful that you find so much joy in music.
ReplyDeleteyour quote is so true. I love the script style you used!
ReplyDeleteBeautiful and appropriate sentiment for you - the letters really came out well and the quilting is wonderful. I love the coordination in the backing fabric
ReplyDeleteThis is so very special Kathy! I had never read this quote, but it is so very true. We all probably have songs that immediately call up emotions in our inner being.
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