Sketchbook and Textiles

Figure 1: Sketchbook drawing

I have tried a new method of creating my textiles piece. Previously I would draw the outline and use it as a blueprint, however this time I have created my fabric sample then I drew afterwards.

Figure 2: Machine and Hand stitch

I have used my imagination to create a patchwork background to work with, for example, my subject matter is an old woman, therefore, I imagine she would like vintage patterned fabrics. Then afterwards I have noticed her features blended in with the background as the stiches are not so obvious. Therefore, I cut out the outline of her face to make it stand out more. I also carry on practicing to control the Conerly machine as they create beautiful lines with chain and moss stitches.  These are the 2 main stiches that I use.

Figure 3: Sketchbook drawing

I used one colour in the sketch, so that I can see tones within the drawing. The colour reflects the mood of the character. This gentleman is represented as blue. From my observations he was quiet in relation to the woman who was represented with more vivid colours.

I am finding that people with distinctive faces are more interesting to draw. In this example the aged skin of the gentleman gave more possibility to be incorporated into the stitch work.

Figure 4: Machine stitch

It is easier for me to progress with what to do next. I have trap down thread with stitching as the hair, to create a 3D effect. However, because of the boldness of the line quality, I find them only suitable for decoration. For example, the clothing in my fabric sample, instead of using the same quality line (free stitch) I used chain stitch and moss stitch to represent the sharp edges of the clothing grease.

The next step is to explore, as I find it helpful to case study my work. Repeat the same subject matter in order to study, but by combining different techniques and be playful around it. Such as thinking about instead of using free stitch to create the face, switching around, using Conerly machine to create the face, for the boldness of the line, and use free stitch to creates the details of the clothing, for they are folding up.

During the case study of my own meaning of Urban I come to realize that I am more interested in drawing people. For I enjoy the atmosphere that I will only 

see that person once. This also fulfils the meaning of drawing on the spot. I like to capture the moment and capture movement. The reason why I did not enjoy drawing buildings is that I work better with figurative pieces.

However, instead of abandon the idea of buildings, I would like to bring in some elements.

Figure 5: Tilleke Schwarz In memoriam, 1988.

I am very fond of Tilleke’s work, for it is very figurative in my eyes. I was inspired by the use of colours and blending in the figures with text and this making it meaningful and personal for the artist herself. The whole composition and choice of colour was good.  She is taking her expressionist piece and linking it to the figurative and narrative through text. This is similar to what I want to achieve next. I would like to create bigger scale of textile work and also bring in the text work.