Inspired by
This wonderful quilt by Robin Ferrier, "Big" from January 2008, 79" x 89" was a big inspiration for my Bon Bon series. It was the simplicity of the layout. Strips of patchwork in column. Genius!
Here is my Bon Bon#1 and you can see that it looks different, yet is organized in sections like Robin's. Next to it is the currently in progress piece from Carmen Rose, inspired by my Bon Bon's. I am soooo loving what she has pieced here, that now I must must must try my hand at stars. I never do stars, but today is the day. I am re-inspired by her inspired-by-me piece. Isn't that fun?
Art happens when artists see stuff that gets their juices running. It is totally OK to take ideas from one artist and reinterpret them for your own work, as long as you put yourself into the new stuff.
Then yesterday I was contacted by a friend from way back, Jane Moxey, (poor darling, she has no blog) who sent me this glorious picture of her quilt, Haitian Drumbeat. It uses Artfabrik fabric (I may have dyed this years ago, who knows?) and our threads. Is it fabulous or what?
12 comments:
Wow, Melanie! What inspiring stuff to start the new year. I love the stars too and can't wait to see what you come up with.
I love the way you put colors together. That's what I'm going to work on so that I come through in my work-not just the fabric designer. Thanks for the inspiration.
O I am tickled PINK to see my work on your blog! I've been having fun being inspired! Thank you soooo much! (And I tried three other ways to make stars before I made those - they were a challenge!)
The circle of inspiration! Isn't this fun and beautiful. Too bad for me that I have been inspired by the food network. This would definitely be better for my non-existent waistline.
What a thrill to see you posed my quilt on your blog! Thank you. What would I have done without my Chicago School of Fusing training?
Wow Ms. Mel, what a fantastic way to start my day! I'm touched...I never had a clue... I LOVE how you've taken the motif! I've just GOT to post today to show the inspiration for "Big," so you all can see how this inspiration chain started... at least for me. Take care and Happy New Year!
Look how wonderful your fabric and thread look - ON BLACK! Wheeee!
Me? Inspired by...Melody!
Wait. Do I hear singing...?
"Here comes the inspiration train...everyone jump on the inspiration train...this is the inspiration train." (with apologies to Cat Stevens) :)
All Aboard! Love and best wishes for a Happy, Healthy and Inspired 2009!
Wow, inspiring stuff indeed! Happy New Creative Year to you my friend.
All these quilts are so colorful that they make the heart sing! The last one makes wonderful use of the color changes in the thread and fabric.
This kind of mutual inspiration reminds me of genuine folk art where a local style was significant and not the individual differences. These things weren't signed with names, what a funny idea to sign something! I guess these craftsmen and -women enjoyed creating variations while remaining in one style, because it gave them a feeling of union which we have lost through developing individuality. It may be great to work like this for a change. What can we lose?
Hi Melody,
I just love your quilts and your style. I just discovered your work a few days ago, through your artist profile on PBS' the Art of Quilting series. Your quilts, I think, were by far the best. I am in love with the super vibrant colors. I am really inspired to try fusing and I can't wait to try dying. DH doesn't know what he's in for yet. Anyway, your blog is fabulous and filled with great advice, I've learned so much already. Thanks for sharing some of your multitude of knowledge. I am greatly appreciative. Also your home is lovely and I'm jealous of the new Ikea furniture. - A fellow Tennessee quilter.
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