SORRY, I AM RIGHT-BRAINED!

This work answers the questions I posed in my previous post. 

I have stitched a self portrait using what seems to be a juxtaposition of two different techniques, however, the red paint-like-drops sit on what was the actual back of my initial piece, which has now become the front. Here, the black thread draws a very sketchy line, but in fact the other side shows the opposite: a very controlled pointillist contour. 

By doing this, I want to bring together the two methods, the unconscious and the conscious stitching, both on the same surface. This allows me to enhance the texture and colour of the upper right hand side of my face and, therefore, draw attention - in a symbolic way - to the functionality of that same side of the brain, where any creative process begins. 

In this case, the eye itself has a very important relevance, for it is, in philosophical and pictorial terms, the connection to the soul; it also places an emphasis on the actual observational process related to creativity. 

Voilà!

Thread on linen (work in progress), thread on linen, 6" hoop

- front -

'La Creatività' (finished), thread on linen, 6" hoop

- back -


Please see my: 'You are two-faced...' post.

SEEING REDS

After looking through Arina Gordienko's work, I suddenly became more aware of the colour red. I also started sketching away and found that we can be a really good source of inspiration to ourselves. Self portraits, in fact, encourage deep observation and reflection. 

Here, I have covered my forehead with some layers of red, following Gordienko's approach, however, despite my understanding of her beliefs in spiritual connectivity with the Universe, my thoughts drifted more towards the idea of creativity itself. In particular, the right side of the brain, which is known to be the most expressive in artistic and emotive terms. 

How would I enhance this whole concept in a self portrait, while adopting the use of thread and drawing?

ARINA'S SILENCE

I have just discovered the evocative work of Russian painter Arina Gordienko, who, as a mature student, gained an MA in Fine Art from Chelsea College of Art and Design, University of the Arts London, in 2008. 

In her self portraits and also her drawings there is the constant use of the colour red, which, as well as representing beauty in Russian folklore, is symbol of connection with the Universe and everything that's in it, according to Buddhist teachings. 

By including it so strongly in her work, she wants to send a message of hope out to the world.

LISTEN TO THE SILENCE, OPUS 2
oil on canvas
170/150cm
2008

'BLUE MEDAL'

This is the documentation of my latest stitching work. It is not finished yet, but what I want to show here is the small embroidery hoop which stretches the fabric and leaves it in place. It frames the piece and also makes it ready for hanging:

SUSPENDED BEAUTY

When I went to see the work of Pae White at Manchester Art Gallery a few years back, I was captivated by the beauty of her delicate installations. I still find them so fascinating...

Pae White, Grotto

To find out more about Pae White 'In no particular order' exhibition please click here

                                                    

YOU ARE TWO-FACED...

These are images of the reverse of some of my stitching works. I think they are visually very interesting considering that the patterns created are unintentional.

VERSATILE THREADS

thread on canvas, work in progress, 20x20cm