I was going to put all sorts of fiber arts stuff in the background, but realized that would only distract from the central figure. I also decided to switch to quilting (ironically, one of the few fiber arts I have NOT particularly enjoyed) because it would allow me to insert the self-referential tangram figure as the quilt. I think it’s a nice touch.
And every part of the pop-up girl is handwoven fabric, except the eyes and the mouth. The face and hands are a 7-1 satin woven on the 60/2 black silk warp, using some of the dye samples from this summer’s study group as weft.. The sleeves are wedding-dress fabric, the bodice and skirt from the wedding-coat. The hair, in a burst of inspiration, is thrums from the 60/2 black silk warp that I just cut from the loom.
(YES!!! The endless 60/2 silk warp is over.)
The pop-up is a bit crude and cartoonish, which I’m not super happy about, but I think it’s the best I can do for now. In Pop-Up 201, we’ll do the elegant flamenco dancer….
I am considering adding a stage curtain and a figure taking a bow on the back cover, but I think that would be gilding the lily. It’s a beautiful book as it stands – it has many technical flaws, and I’d definitely redo it before submitting it to a juried show, but I love the concept, and for a class project it is way, WAY “over the top”.
Now, off to clean up the studio! In the course of frenzied book-making it has turned into an enormous mess. I am also overstocked with yarn, so if you know anyone interested in lots of (free) fine yarns, drop me a line and I’ll send you a list of what I’m giving away.
Next artistic adventure: drawing class! I managed to get into Drawing I at Foothill Community College, and it’s an entirely online class, so I can work from home. Class starts in January.
I’m just getting into weaving with some finer yarns. I’ve some cones from colourmart – almost all blacks in different fibers. I’d be happy to send you money for postage for some fine yarns.
I’ve been reading the chocolate adventures that you have been having and miss the box I got for sponsoring your AIDS Ride.
what is your next adventure – more weaving? more drawing?
I’m doing silk ribbons on the inkle loom – I just learned some pick up patterns from Sara Lamb and can’t wait to weave some ribbons out of my handspun silk.
I am very eager to know what structure /technique you used for the actual binding of the book, because textile-based books present special challenges.
I was hoping that the wedding fabric would make an appearance! It is a beautiful book (and story!)