Material Musings - Wax Resist Reveals

In Material Musings I share several projects that use combination of wax resist dyeing, clay baths, and tea solutions! The results were gorgeous and I show some of the designs that are my favorite.  There are endless possibilities when you take the time to experiment with your supplies.

Here are some suggestions for using your wax resist creations:

• Wall Hangings - I hope to use some of the larger fabric pieces as wall hangings, adding to their backing and maybe adding some beading or other embellishments.
• Quilting - You could incorporate the wax resist dyed fabric as part of the fabric for your quilt 
• Make one-of-a-kind clothes using your dyed fabric. 
• Collage - Layering, using different dyed pieces to create a fabric collage.  You could add additional elements such as paints, paper, or found objects. 
• Slow Stitching - This is such a peaceful activity.  You could use your wax resist dyed fabric as a base or cut out shapes and stitch them onto the chosen fabric

I worked on the woven piece and will take a break from it while I think about the next steps, and maybe add beading and other embellishments. 

Fabric Fragments - I am putting together a series of fabric bags that showcase a mix of wax resist, avocado-dyed, and hand-painted fabrics. In another accompanying bag, I have placed a selection of printed fabrics The bag holds a special stitched art piece, making it a collector's item.  

Keep an eye out! These fragment bags will soon be available for purchase on my course platform HERE. Don't miss your chance to own a piece of this artistic adventure!

Before You Go

Wax Resist - Material Musings Short

 

Here is a snippet showing how I create my wax resist pieces and add clay to dye the fabric, the wax stops any color from adhering to the fabric.  You can see the full video HERE

I would then use some of the dyed fabric in some of my stitched projects.  This one has a clay dyed piece of fabric and a conventional dyed piece (the blue element) which has been stitched onto the fabric.

This meditative prayer wall hanging was initially wax resist dyed and then I added the stitches over time.  Come and join me for Material Musings to see some of the rest of the projects, on my YouTube channel.

Before You Go

Join us in the Art Resource Hub

Artists Studio Tours - Barbados 2024 - A Self-Guided Tour in Barbados

 

The Artists Studio Tours Barbados 2024 is Here!

Imagine immersing yourself in the vibrant art scene of Barbados, wandering through artists studios brimming with creativity. Meet the passionate artists and witness their techniques while you discover one-of-a-kind pieces that you can cherish.  This self-guided tour isn't just about art; it's an immersive journey into the heart of Bajan culture.

I have put together some tips to help you make the most of your visit as you embark on your artistic adventure

Choose Your Studios to visit:

• Immerse yourself in diverse mediums like painting, sculpture, textiles, and jewelry - there are 44 Artists in 27 studios.
• Check out the online brochure if you have not yet picked one up you get to see examples of the artists work - Follow your interests! Explore as many of the studios as you can!
• All of the studios are free to enter and the artists are happy to chat and talk about their work.

Planning:

• Download the map - Grab a digital or physical map from the event website to chart your course.
• Pace Yourself - Spread your visits across the two weekends (February 3rd & 4th, March 23rd & 24th) to savor the experience.
• Studios are open 11am-5pm, so relax and arrive when inspiration strikes - artists have included their telephone numbers if you need to make additional arrangements.

Tips for a Smooth Journey:

• Pack Light: Wear comfortable shoes, bring water, a hat and sunscreen, and consider a bag for any treasures you find.
• Connect with the Artists and engage in conversation, ask questions, and learn about their creative process.
• Support Local Art: If a piece speaks to you, consider purchasing it as a unique souvenir and a meaningful contribution to the community.

Bonus 

• Combine studios with sightseeing - Plan your route so you can take pit stops on the way - take in one of the many beautiful beaches.  There are artists studios in most of the Parishes
• Fuel your creativity, remember to take time to have something to eat and enjoy delicious Bajan cuisine.
• Share your experience and use #ASTB2024 to connect with fellow art lovers and artists and showcase your finds.

Google Map Directions

Remember, this is your artistic adventure. Wander freely, be inspired, and bring home memories and art that will forever connect you to the magic of Barbados!


Before You Go check out the Art Resource Hub:

Arts and Wellness Cafe - Words, Creativity and Art Events

Looking forward to having you join us in the Arts and Wellness Cafe.

I take you through the word of the week and look at ways in which we can use the inspiration around us in our work.  Who are your favorite artists and what influence do they have on your growth?  I share some of mine too.

The other things that we look at in this episode is:

• Art journal process -  we look at how we can explore the different effects we can get with the supplies that we have including graphite, and water-soluble graphite tints.
• Fabric Art projects and resist dyeing sneak peak!
• Question and Tip for the week to encourage and motivate you - What would be your dream collaboration?
• Arts and Artists spotlight, lots of things are happening in Barbados with the Artists Studio Tours happening over the weekend - 3rd and 4th of February.

Take a self-guided tour of the many artists' studios scattered throughout Barbados. Meet the talented artists, view their galleries, and bring home a beautiful piece of local art to cherish. In addition, this tour provides the bonus of experiencing the beauty of Barbados itself!  Hope you can join us in this adventure!

Before you go:

Check out my online course - Filling the Creative Well