This is what popped into my head when I came up with the challenge word. It has been my focus for quite a few years and I feel like I am getting closer and closer to reaching some of those stars.
Of course my first thought was to make hands and stars, but I just couldn’t get the emotional connection with it that way.
I found this beautiful Jenny Beyer fabric in my stash and it reminded me of watching sunsets growing up on the farm. It was magical the way the sun would set and the stars would pop out one by one and then there were millions as the Milky Way would appear.
Climbing trees to touch the stars was one way to get closer to them. I also enjoyed swinging as fast and high as I could go. I would stretch my toes out as far as I could to reach the stars.
I always make my quilts 12” x 12” but this time when I auditioned it framed 11” x 14” it was the right way to go. I followed my gut and did what my art told me it needed.
I added twinkling stars that are little Swarovski crystals.
So sit back and enjoy watching the stars appear as you reach out your hands, heart, and dreams to them.
Judy, I wondered if you, having just had a knee replacement, would be able to post! I worried that you would not, but I ought to have had faith! Of course, this is YOUR challenge word, so I am so happy that you (obviously) got this done before going in for the surgery. This is truly beautiful, and it's a lovely quilt inspired by your challenge word!
ReplyDeleteI wasn't sure I was going to get it posted. As you can tell the photo is not cropped. I had my computer updated and I can't quite find my way around it yet. I was going to have it all ready to just post before surgery, but couldn't figure it all out. Thankfully, today I was able to get this done!
ReplyDeleteYour background is indeed magical. I have that piece in blues but never thought of it like this. It makes the quilt. Such a happy piece. I love seeing your quilts as they are all so unique in thought and design. Hope you are feeling better. Hugs.
ReplyDeleteThis is great! I love the fact that you used crystals for the stars!
ReplyDeleteJust beautiful Judy. I love the swing in the trees as I, too, watched the stars pop out in my tree swing in El Paso, Texas, where the stars were so bright. Your quilts are always so perfect, and I love your interpretation.
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful way to portray Reach. I can just imaging swinging on that swing. The crystals area perfect touch.
ReplyDeleteJudy I love this quilt and your interpretation of the theme - it does remind me of the times I tried to see if I could swing up to the rooftops as a child. This is also a perfect use for crystals. I am so amazed you managed to post it on time and hope your recovery is going wlls/
ReplyDeleteI can remember many happy times swinging as a kid especially in the swing in the big oak tree that I used in my reflection quilt.
ReplyDeleteA lovely quilt about our dreams whether in childhood or as adults.
Your fabric choices, and use of the crystals are perfect ! I think all of us have great memories of swinging in a similar-type swing and trying to reach the twinkling stars... Great job !
ReplyDeleteAnd best wishes for a speedy recovery from your surgery :-D
This quilt is visually captivating! It is graceful and it teases the memories we stored long ago. I am a dedicated 'tree-hugger' and star-gazer, your quilt reminded me that one can actually REACH for those stars.
ReplyDeleteI love the quietness ( is that a real word? ) of your quilt that evokes so many fun memories. I loved swings, the bigger the better. Perfect fabric choices as are the crystals.
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