My experiments with coiling continue, some based on previous work, like this coiled bowl made using a core of sash cord wrapped with knitting yarn.
I’ve also coiled a couple more pear trays.
For the borders I just used the thickest thread I had in my stash – together they remind me of those hot Indian colours.
I also had another go at making rhubarb cordage. This time I left the peelings to dry out, then sprayed them lightly before twisting them. It was much more successful, and smelled nice to boot! The colour was stronger too.
Another satisfactory olfactory experience was working with pine needles. There is a long history of making pine needle baskets in North America, where some pines have incredibly long needles. The longleaf pine, Pinus palustris, for example, has needles that can be up to 18 inches long!
I collected the needles I used from the ground beneath a tree in Kew Gardens a couple of months ago when such things were still possible. They were only around 5 inches long, but this was fine for making a small rustic basket. 🙂
As I mentioned previously, the straw vessels I’ve been making were for a Prism exhibition called “In Search of (Im)possibilities”, which was due to open in London in May but has been postponed, probably till next year. However, the group has decided to organise a virtual exhibition instead, starting on 13 May. This means that those of you who are not in the UK will also be able to see it – a silver lining!
This week’s garment from Kimono: Kyoto to Catwalk at the V&A is an ensemble created by John Galliano for Christian Dior in 2007. According to the label, “The sweeping lines of the outer garment reference both uchikake (outer kimono) and the swing coat pioneered by Dior in the 1950s.”
The layers of colour at the neckline also evoke kasane, colour combinations found in the garments of aristocrats during the Heian period. The hat is by Stephen Jones.
The photo below shows some of the lavish embroidery with silk threads and hand painted lace appliqué.
Stay well!
Your coiling is really looking good. I love the mix and match pear trays. We have tons of pine needles here. Perhaps I’ll send you some 😉
I’m glad that your exhibition will be online. I look forward to seeing it.
Thanks Ruth. It would be good to meet up and exchange pine needles one day! 😉
Your work is exquisite Kim and I also particularly like the pear trays. It’s such a shame so many wonderful exhibitions are having to be postponed but being able to see some of them online is a real plus for those who wouldn’t otherwise have managed to visit.
Thanks so much Karen – every cloud has a silver lining. Hope you’re staying well.
Kim the neatness of your green & pear basket are great but I love the
Pine needle basket….you must have a lot of patience.
I’m looking forward to seeing the Prism exhibition & I hope you will post the link For us.
Keep up the creative work
Thank you Antje – I will definitely post the link once I have it! Stay safe.
Beautiful baskets! Coiled one brought back memories. I had made one as a young woman. I doubt I could do it now. But nice to see.
Thanks Marilyn. Let me know if you have another go at coiling!