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Complex cloth is created by building up layers of surface design on fabric. It requires having a vision of where you are going, but the willingness to go with the flow because surface design is not an exact science — at least the way I do it!!
I must have the art cloth (that I can’t show you) done and shipped to Jane Dunnewold in Texas by Friday. So far I have overdyed, discharged and screen printed two central images – very abstract. I was not thrilled with my results as they were not as crisp as I would have liked. but as I said, there is nothing exact. So I started on my next layer this morning, first practicing on other fabric. I even e-mailed Rayna Gilman in a panic because I was feeling so insecure about printing on the silk. She reminded me that it is a process that you go through and the results will vary. So I forged ahead. I wanted to do some overall printing with found objects, like the vinyl mesh potato bags and bubble wrap. Here is the result on another piece of silk that I had in my stash. This is little blurry. You can see the bubble wrap print, but the mesh is more subtle. The circles are a thermofax screen that I made. I will print those on the art cloth tomorrow. I also want to create an image that I will foil.
So, after doing this sample, I took a deep breath and started working on the large silk piece. Wow, this is addictive. The printing that I did today helped to integrate yesterday’s images and the parts that I didn’t like took on this amorphous and lovely appearance. That is why I love creating complex cloth.
I am falling behind in my homework for Liz’s class. I have skimmed the material that I downloaded this week-end. I think it is going to be lots of fun. Here is the workspace for the class that I have set up in my office next to my computer and scanner. I have to scan my work and post it on the yahoo site.
I bet you are wondering how I get anything done! Here are some pages from my journal for the class to prove that I am getting work done.
The last one is a composition using lots of different textures.
I must get some work done on the SDA website. Good night.
Your journal for Liz’s class is great fun! I could kick myself for not taking it, but now is definitely not the time for me. Your work space makes me feel “normal” or at least not alone! LOL
Yes, complex cloth is calling my name again. You have inspired me!
And I must agree with Regina: deadlines definitely block me, as do competitions. I’m happiest just doing my own thing at my own slow pace. You have exhausted me my dear!
xo
It is addictive, isn’t it? Also, how did you get a picture of my basement work area 😉 ??
Thanks so much for sharing your complex cloth. They are very inspiring and this is the part of creating that I miss the most. Hopefully, in the near future, I will be able to paint, wax, stamp, etc. The “go with the flow” sometimes is hard for me, but often the results are amazing.
Have fun with Liz’s class, too.
Diane
Your work is growing fabulously! I love watching the different changes and surfaces that occur. Wish I could see some of this in person.
I keep saying that I want to get back to making great cloth. Hopefully in March Life will give me some space.
Yuu are certainly busy. The results are wonderful. That orange scarf from yesterday is very lovely and if this piece with the gold is any indication, you’ve got this technique down pat. I just love it when you’re this energized and busy. The buzz comes right through the screen.
The sample is lovely, and I can only imagine the work that goes into all of this. Still, I can easily imagine the sense of pleasure at the results.
I can’t believe you were exhausted looking at the “to do” list that I posted yesterday. YOU are doing so much! How exciting. I was entraced by the Complex Cloth special exhibit in Houston. I can’t wait to see your work.
Hi Gerrie,
How exciting, the ‘growing complexity’ of your cloth! For me a deadline would be a big problem, since this definitely blocks my creativity. I find that if I simply let it happen, loosen up and just play, the results are often stunning. But of course, once you are more experienced, there should be (some) more certainty of the results. I love your posts, they are part of my everyday input of inspiration, so thank you so much!
Regina, Sint Maarten DWI