Crowning Glories - Artworks
jump to image : 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 | 19 | 20 | 21 | 22 | 23
Mammillaria Prolifera
by Jacky
Media: Velour, chiffon, satin, machine embroidery, pintucks, beading.
The cactus caught my eye because it had flowers and berry-like shapes which looked like they would make it a self-pollinating plant - male and female forms - intriguing. I worked the hat from my sketches of the cactus, and it has come out quite true to the plant. I think visiting the cactus house has renewed my interest in flowers.
I tried lots of different techniques before making the hat. I selected pintucks as one of my main techniques as I think the texture they create is outstanding. I chose to work with velour to give a sumptuous feel - luxury fabrics and ornamentation (beads, eyelets and embroidery) gave me the look I wanted.
The effect of the hat was to produce a warm glow in me. I am surprised at how well all the techniques go together - the varied beading is complementary.
Through the construction of the hat, I have learned that it is worthwhile to persevere, to have the courage to make changes. I found it worth going slowly, even though the work has been painstaking at times - the results speak for themselves.


