”Messengers Amidst the Lupine” by Lorraine Turner

Fiber arts and the world of textile design is a diverse community.  It’s growing like wildfire as it appeals to all generations.

Everyone wants to try their hand and off they go watching tutorials, reading books blogging and following their favorites on social media. It’s a very natural part of the journey, but if we are not careful the amount of research we take in can be overwhelming and bring an overloading sensation that makes us unable to even begin. Procrastination begins to build.

How can we find our own way through all of this information? I always pause and ask myself, what is it about this artist that is stopping me in my tracks. Is it color, subject matter or just an overall mood that is calling me?
Is it technique or is it something we cannot put into words.
Take time to just ask this simple question and you will find your response puts you in touch with your individual personality

As I continue to illustrate and explore the world of fiber arts, I see many who follow artists step-by-step, again and again. I can begin to see the influence of several contemporary artists. This is how we learn.

While studying at the Art Institute of Philadelphia, I was trained to paint and duplicate the work of the masters. I was taught to model Cézanne, Matisse and Monet. This was a wonderful exercise in applying technique in order to capture the look and feel the artist had rendered. But…had I copied the work and had I continued in making reproductions, I would have missed my own ability to make something fresh and new.

Be inspired, be excited, attend workshops, read blogs and by all means continue to follow the works of your favorites.
We must all find own path of self-expression and not try to cookie cutter others. Techniques vary, but it is our ability to move with what “feels” right that blends with our personality that truly gives the audience OUR identity and highest form of creativity.

SOME OF MY FAVORITES
Here are some of the textile artists I have learned from and I am constantly wowed by all they do.
Take a look and see if they knock your socks off too.

Rachel Wright http://rachelwright.com
Sophie Standing http://www.sophiestandingart.com
Sue De Vanny http://www.suedevannyartist.com.au

Rayleen Richardson https://www.facebook.com/Raylenerichardsonart
Judith Baker Montano http://judithbakermontano.com
Moy Mackay https://www.moymackaygallery.com