How did 6' of Chaos happen?

As I mentioned the other day, my piece "6' of Chaos" was just invited to show in Quilt National 2021. Here is some info about how it was created. There are three main stages, with many small stages in between.

First there is the photography. I take photos a lot. I have thousands in my computer. Only a few of these will become fiber works. If the photo speaks on its own, it doesn't need more, but some photos are just a recording of WHAT I saw, and not really HOW I saw it. Those photos need the textures and layer of fiber to complete their story.

Secondly is photo manipulation. Sometimes a photo just needs some edits of contrast, or cropping or some minor color adjustments, but sometimes, like in this case, many images are merged together to form a new image. Each is  manipulated with my editing program, then merged into one image.  The finished file is then sent to be printed on fabric. The photo becomes the starting point; sometimes just an underlying sketch for my finished piece. It is an important step because it is where I make my base color, contrast, and composition decisions.

Finally is the layered construction of the process. This can include layers of additional fabrics either above or below the photo fabric, hand and machine stitching, couching of yarns, fabric paint, or whatever it takes to create the colors or textures that I need for the piece. On some pieces non-fiber items like found objects or produce netting is added.

Together these stages create a unique image and surface for my work;
one that neither photography or fiber could create on their own.

The photo manipulation

This is where it starts; A merging of a few different photos of sidewalk textures.

Then some shadows and colors are added to the background.

Now I have added the runner, road and arrows.

Some more shadows are added.

Final the walking couple is added to the photo.

The fiber layers:

The fabric is then ordered.

After the fabric is returned with the photo printed on it, I start to add the layers of additional colors and textures. I have used some of the same techniques I show on the DEMONSTRATION page, but also some additional ones that are unique to this piece. Below are some detail shots and information about the process(es) used in that area.

At the top of this photo you can see where lace has been added under a layer of organza to create a unique texture.

To create this central area, I used circular machine stitching, hand stitching and layers of fabric to enhance the circular imagery in the photo.

Hand stitching, layers of transparent fabrics, free motion machine stitching, and other processes added here.

Here, on the people, you can see where I have added details with hand stitching. on the middle left is an example where the stitched texture is enhance by dry-brushing it with paint.

These silhouettes were created using fabric paint and thread.

The finished piece

Below is the finished piece next to the manipulated photo. I hope you can see how the fiber and stitch have added to the original photo work.

I generally do not do classes or workshops, but do like to share my processes and ideas. I hope I have given you ideas on why it is important to use your own photos, and how your fabric and stitch work can take those images beyond photography with texture and color!

CLICK HERE to see the other two pieces that were entered