New!! Hand Forged Knives by Michael Harlick

Putting his goldsmithing skills to use in a larger format, Mike has spent the winter working with his new forge. There are a few new products in the works but this is my favourite. This knife is constructed with a Newfoundland Railway spike and moose antler. Stay tuned for more products coming out of the forge. With the coming of the warmer weather, Mike will also be working on creating a new stock of Spruce Root baskets.

Summer Embroidery Classes at Dozen Odd, Carbonear!

Join Susan for a day of stitching in the beautiful Town of Carbonear. This summer, Susan will be hosting two hand embroidery classes at Dozen Odd Gallery in Carbonear. These classes are for all skill levels; beginner to advanced. Space is Limited. To register for workshops or for more information, please email blackhenstudio@gmail.com. 

Forget-Me-Nots
Saturday, June 25, 10 - 4 pm

Forget-Me-Nots have a long tradition in Newfoundland and Labrador as a flower of remembrance. This year as we commemorate the 100th Anniversary of the battles of the Somme and Beaumont-Hamel, Newfoundland and Labradorians will once again wear the Forget-Me-Not as a symbol of remembrance.

With silk thread and metal threads on dupioni silk ground fabric, we will stitch up a sprig of Forget-Me-Nots suitable for framing. Finished size: 5" x 7". We will cover basic stitches, beading, working with metal and how to mount your finished embroidery. Cost of workshop is $50 which includes all materials.

Caribou Hair Tufting and Goldwork

Saturday, July 30, 10 - 4

Join Susan for a relaxing day that will cover the basic stitches of historic goldwork and traditional caribou hair tufting and mounting your work for framing. Each participant will create a small (approx 4" x 6") embroidery suitable for framing. You will be able to choose natural or dyed hair as well as choice of ground fabric. Cost of workshop: $50 which includes materials.

A Broader Pallette: Molly Fodge

Last fall, I was fortunate to be a part of the NL Tourism campaign. The theme for this year is Colour. I am very pleased how it turned out. I first viewed it in the summer months and it reminded how beautiful everything can be in the summer. I can't wait to get back to the dye pots!

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. "