for as long as i can remember, i have been devoted to the tread. i learned to sew at a very early age and hold vivid memories of my grandfather sitting at the table with me, his large, strong hands, so nimble with needle and thread, showing me the good way... techniques i use to this day. my love for fabric, textiles, and all things sartorial, is hardwired into my dna.
i come from a long line of both women and men who have articulated artistically and practically in this way. in this lineage we have lace maker, tailor, designer, seamstress, and baseball maker to name a few. when i work i feel sometimes connected to my people, on the thread, amidst the craft.
one form i have had enduring appreciation for are the indigenous textiles. through the ages i have collected indigo pieces from the west coast of africa, monochromatic and multicolored pieces from the backstrap looms of guatemala. there was a day when i would wrap my body in these creations and feel quite at home... these days i have taken to upholstering victorian era furniture with these beauties. the multiplicity of steps involved in textile art is both humbling and inspiring to me.
THE WAY IT IS
there is a thread you follow.
it goes among things that change.
but it doesn't change.
people are wondering about what you are pursuing
you have to explain about the thread.
but it is hard for others to see.
sometimes it's hard for you to see.
while you hold it you can't get lost.
tragedies happen; people get hurt or die;
you suffer and get old.
nothing you can do can stop time's unfolding.
you don't ever let go of the thread.
~ william stafford
image source: one / two / three / four
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