Personal Project

Personal Project Images: 

 Dining in Velvet 
earthenware clay, glaze, flock, vintage doilies
15½''x 15"x 5½

In-Process Images:

 Research: 

Caroline Harrius
https://carolineharrius.com/Silent-Nooks

Emily O'Leary
https://www.emilyoleary.com/

Sketch:

Artist Statement:

Dining in Velvet explores recontextualizing traditional elements of dining decor, such as dollies and plush cushions, to evoke reflections on luxury, craftsmanship, and societal shifts. The artwork aims to reflect on the traditional use of dollies on dining tables and the plush, velvety cushions of dinner seats, both luxurious and handcrafted, yet increasingly rare. These intricately made dollies, once treasured but now often neglected or sold cheaply, inspired the presentation of them in a new light. The content of the work comprises two ceramic bowls, one plate-like shape, and one cylindrical form resembling a candle holder were crafted and adorned with a deep burgundy hue, giving them a velvety texture akin to the dollies. By bringing these elements together to create a new context, viewers are invited to recognize the shapes of the bowls, plates, and candle holders, yet acknowledge that they cannot serve their intended purposes in this context, thus challenging their perception and inviting contemplation on the shifting meanings of everyday objects. 

Diversity Banners

Club Banner Images:

Club Banner
38'' x 30"

Club Members with Banner

Personal Banner Images:

EAT
velvet, floral printed fabric, embroidery thread,
 vintage: lace, doilies, napkins, and two sterling
silver spoons
40"x 30"

Club Banner Sketches and In-Process Images: 

Personal Banner Research: 

Cauleen Smith

I Cannot Be Fixed, 2017 

website

Millie Amber
For: Parliament Tattoo x Courtney Love
https://www.millie-amber.co.uk/parliament-tattoo

Millie Amber
https://www.millie-amber.co.uk/parliament-tattoo

19th century Fraternal Odd Fellows silk banners
website

Personal Banner Sketches and In-Process Images:

Personal Banner Reflection Statement:

The textile banner entitled EAT was inspired by vintage aesthetics and a commitment to sustainability. My intent was to visually communicate a sense of nostalgia for the past while also highlighting the value of repurposing materials in contemporary art. Initially, I wanted to focus on incorporating vintage lace that had been tucked away, unused, in a forgotten box. I felt compelled to breathe new life into these intricately crafted pieces, acknowledging the time and skill invested in their creation. As I began the process, I decided to construct a scene reminiscent of a vintage table setting, using the lace as a border to evoke the ambiance of a classic tablecloth. Throughout the evolution of the idea, there were moments where the results deviated from my expectations. To address this, I adjusted the composition, experimenting with different placements of the fabric and accessories until achieving a harmonious balance. My decision to include vintage doilies, napkins, and sterling silver spoons was motivated by a desire to enhance the nostalgic atmosphere of the piece. These elements not only added visual interest but also served as symbolic reminders of bygone eras and domestic traditions. I decided to use lace ribbon for the letters to maintain coherence with the piece's overall aesthetic. By integrating lace throughout the artwork, I aimed to create a unified visual narrative that resonated with the theme of repurposing and nostalgia. In future works, I want to learn more about repurposing materials as a means of storytelling and artistic expression.