Woody Point Poppies

Natural dyes on silk.

11" x 14" 

Chaucer In The Yard

Being a backyard chicken keeper means I am always watching for predators. This year the Chanticleer and the Fox played out in my backyard. I have always loved Chaucer and was inspired to create this piece. It was created with natural dyes on silk with metal threads and the skull of my Chanticleer, who eventually lost the battle with the fox.

Summer at Nan's

Vintage and Antique Fabric and Threads,
Found Objects and Photo Transfer. Artist Photo

Now on display at Five Island Art Gallery in Tor's Cove, Newfoundland. The piece is for the resettlement themed exhibition Between the Wind and the Water. If you haven't been to this Gallery, it is well worth the drive. It is a gem on the Southern Shore, representing artists from all across the province.  When you are there be sure to visit Running the Goat Press and BallyCatter Crafts; both a stone's throw from the gallery. Also close by is the Irish Loop Coffee. You will definitely need to drop in on the way home for some great coffee and discussion about everything you saw on your trip to the Southern Shore...now don't I sound like a tourist commercial!!

I wish I had a Caribou.

Natural Dye on Silk, Caribou Hair, Photos and Antique Recipe. Ned Pratt Photo

It's been awhile since I posted and thought I should show you some work that I created in the fall for the Spirit of the Caribou exhibition.  It was the first time I created a really large animal with needle painting. It was challenging as the single strands still felt visually large. I am pleased with the format of the piece, which is reminiscent of the pages of scrap book my grandmother created. Below is a closeup of the caribou as well as my artist statement for the exhibition.

Artist Photo

"My piece for Spirit of the Caribou speaks of my deep connection to the barrens of Newfoundland, which parallels the experience of many who grew up on the Avalon Peninsula. Caribou are ethereal creatures; a glimpse is always magical. Since childhood, I have harboured the dream of owning one; fascinated by stories and pictures of Laplanders and the Grenfell project. Working with the caribou hair, both intimately connects me to and honours the creature’s spirit. "

Work With Your Courage High

Ned Pratt Photo

This dress was created for Wild, Pure Aesthetic Wonder, an exhibition to be held in conjunction with Fibrearts NL. It is on display, til the end of the week at the Craft Council Gallery I created this child sized entirely from found objects (mostly beach combed) including: floursacks, rope, beach glass and pottery, shot gun shells, moose antler, bone, caribou hair and willow. It was challenging to stitch small lace eyelets with the strands of the rough polyester rope. As created the tiny holes, I kept hearing the voice of my mentor, Bunty Severs in my head as I stitched. 'Builds character' she would always retort when I grumbled about a stitch or technique. I now use that line on my students, to varying degrees of eye rolling.
The lace edging is also knit from the stranded rope, but the knitting was not near as challenging. I thoroughly enjoyed the process or this creation and was sad when it was completed.
Below is my artist statement about the piece. Even though the statement pertains to those who live inside the park, I feel the work is an tribute to all Newfoundland and Labrador women past and present who, like myself and Bunty Severs, chose to make a living following their passion with fibre.

‘Work With Your Courage High’  As a child and adult I have spent time in the park; camping hiking and exploring. All wonderful experiences, but my most valued trips are ones I have made to teach, work and meet with the women who work in the craft industry and live inside the park. These women are carrying out a long held tradition in Newfoundland and Labrador. Although this is not unique, I think that these women embody the spirit of the contemporary rural craftsperson: retaining the traditional resourcefulness and passion for creating, while embracing business savvy, intuition and opportunity to face an international market that seasonally appears on their doorstep.

All Kinds of Love - A Valentine Challenge

I've made Valentines all my life. As a child, I loved making paper valentines with paper doilies, red paper and sparkles. Heart shaped cakes, with shiny red sprinkles on pink icing, make me happy at a time of year when the darkness becomes unbearable. 

I was excited when the Craft Council Gallery presented the All Kinds of Love, Valentine Challenge. Playing with vintage fabrics and antique lace and hunting through my collection of buttons and beads was just what
I needed on a January snow day.

My mobile is inspired by the tradition of Indian prosperity hens; given to bring abundance and prosperity to the home. I actually enjoyed myself so much, I made 3, one for the gallery, one for myself and one for my daughter.
All Kinds of Love opens at the Craft Council Gallery, February 7 and runs until February 28th. It is a the perfect place to pick up a Valentine treat for yourself or a loved one. 

Hand Embroidery Certificate Program

Have you thought about bringing your embroidery skills to the next level? On Wednesday, February 4th, Part 1 of the new Hand Embroidery Certificate Program will start at the Anna Templeton Centre. Check out Anna Templeton Centre for Craft art and Design for more information and to register for the course.