The Art, Music, Mayhem, and More of StudioLams
I made this a little while ago because I needed to make something for, you know, fun. I think that making things “just because” can get lost sometimes when you are trying to “make it” as an artist. I had planned on entering this into a competition but it didn’t work out that way. So for now, I’ll just admire it here at home and see what comes along.
Eye Exam by Jackie Lams
I think this fabric was originally a tablecloth. But not anymore. After dyeing it, I attacked it with various blueprint images and a lot of fabric paint. The images are significant, but I’m not saying why just yet. This to will go into the outside installation project.
So happy to see the sun and warm weather around here. I’ve been plotting, planning and painting on the fabric for the outdoor installation. It is evolving as I go. I was reminded why I need lots of heat to get the vibrant colors I love with fabric dye. I also figured out that not all second hand fabric is what someone thought it was. So some of the colors didn’t turn out exactly as I had hoped. But never fear, I came at the fabric with a little Dyna-flow and sunshine. I pulled out an old trellis that had been weathering for several seasons in the back of the garage and whatever else I could find at that moment. I also had an audience while working. He found it pretty fascinating for a little while.
Pretty cool! I’ll be figuring what’s next very soon.
Coffee and tea Thermofax screens designed by Lynn Krawczyk, burned and assembled by me and sold exclusively at the online Interweave Store in these awesome kits. Get them while you can because supplies are limited. Big thanks to my family for giving me the time to work on such a great challenge and opportunity.
I’ve been compelled lately to explore the world of outdoor installation art in our backyard. Big inspiration comes from Jeanne Williamson and her backyard installations. I don’t think I will keep whatever I do up for a year. I’m thinking through summer and maybe fall. You see in the picture below a collection of fabric dyes (from Pro Chem) and fabric I purchased from our local Salvation Army store. My goal is to only incorporate used household fabrics (curtains, table cloths, bed sheets) and any random cotton fabric remnants found at the second hand store. I’ll explain why I’m only using second hand materials later on in the project. But for now I’m still gathering supplies and figuring this out as I go along. Next step will be to dye the fabric. I just need Mother Nature to stop being so darn moody and give us some decent days so I maybe I can work outside.
A closeup shot of a piece I just completed for the Surface Design Association’s Member Show.
I haven’t fallen off the face of the earth, yet. I needed to finish some very large projects and take care of the kiddos. There are some really cool projects in the works that I can’t wait to share. In the meantime, this piece I hope to finish in time for a show. But we shall see if that happens. I’m having fun making it regardless.
Oh! The website is still under construction. There are a few bugs we are working on.
Doing some surface design to get back in the groove of things. More to come.
St. Patrick’s Breastplate Prayer
Mouse over and click to see it larger or go to my Flickr page for an even closer look.
I bet you were wondering how those scarfs got to look so cool. I will say it was many days of hard work. It had to be hot and it could not be windy. It took me about a day to do one, although I did get a little faster towards the end of summer. My fingers got very stained with multiple paint colors, and yes that was rather fun. I don’t have any shots of the painting process itself because I was painting not taking pictures. But I do have the drying process.
And then the finished product.
Pretty nifty, eh! Each one is unique and I couldn’t mass produce them if I tried. So go check them out over here and feel free to convo on Etsy if you have any questions.
For the month of November, Lynn Krawczyk’s Thermofax Shop on Etsy has been turned into an awesome holiday gift shop full of lovely fiber goodness for all. I am showcasing handmade fiber cuffs, sun painted pashmina scarves, and retro chicken artwork. Lynn is offering some of her amazing artwork that you should snatch up while you can. My Studio Lams Etsy Shop will also remain open with larger artwork available for purchase. Pieces are limited so don’t hesitate if you find something you like.
I made this a little while ago because I needed to make something for, you know, fun. I think that making things "just because" can get lost sometimes when you are trying to "make it" as an artist. I … [Read More...]
