Sunday, August 8, 2010

Key Largo and Margaritaville: Emerald Treasures Part IV and V








Key Largo pictured above measures 18 1/2" X 19 1/2" and is Part IV of the Emerald Treasures series. Margaritaville, pictured below measures 16 1/2" X 19 1/2" and is Emerald Treasures Part V. Both pieces are painted on antique damask napkin backgrounds as well as the turtles, themselves. They are somewhat 3 Dimensional and built up in layers. The turtle shells are composed of dyed antique lace, needle felted with wool roving, and embellished with beads, imported buttons and trinkets. Hand dyed lace, trims and doilies were soft sculpted to simulate coral and plants found along the ocean floor. This series involves hand and machine applique, and machine quilting with metallic and trilobal polyester threads. Both are available for sale to a good home and can be seen at the Copper Shade Tree Gallery in Round Top. I am really enjoying this series and have plans to begin incorporating wire in the next few pieces to add further lift and dimension to the sea plants. I have also been thinking of lifting the turtles up off of the surface as well and allow them to float more freely on the surface. I am hoping that in trying these new techniques, I might be able to truly create a 3Dimensional piece that lifts off the surface and reaches out to the viewer. Should be fun and challenging. Ideas? Suggestions?

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