April 17, 2010

Plume Poppy reveal; Images 2010 Acceptance

I'm happy to reveal my newest major work, Plume Poppy. It's very large--81"h x 74" w--and very intricate. Plume Poppies are one of my favorite garden plants; I love them for their huge glaucous leaves and the delicate little flowers on the plumes, but mostly just for their sturdy and reliable presence. I began this work almost five years ago out of a desire to portray what I find so captivating about the plant, and have worked in fits and starts since then, while addressing the various conceptual, design and construction challenges. You can track it back as a work-in-progress by clicking on "Plume Poppy" under Labels in the right sidebar.

The plume is a cyanotype, enhanced with small seed beads to add the bit of coral color the blossoms acquire as they mature. To the right and the left of the plume are handpainted silk noil panels. The center panel is also a cyanotype, delineated with a lot of stitching. I love the way small leaves develop in the axils of the large leaves.

The side panels are heliographic prints done with textile paints, also heavily stitched, and with semi-precious stones sewn on the stem junction. All of the panels are joined by bands of patchwork, made from handpainted and commercial cottons, silks and wool.

I made this art quilt more because I was driven to do so than as a practical venture. It can be problematic to find exhibit venues for a work of this size. Therefore I am thrilled to be able to announce that it has been accepted into Images 2010 at the Robeson Gallery at Pennsylvania State University. I've been lucky enough to have work at this venue previously, and I know from experience they do an excellent job of displaying the work and lighting it properly. The show runs from June 9th to July 11th, with an opening reception on 6/11 that I'm looking forward to attending.

Also selected by juror Dan Mills was White Mulberry. This one is so much better in person than my best photographic efforts can do justice to--the greens and purples don't come out quite as true as I'd like--so I'm really pleased at the opportunity to exhibit it.

18 comments:

Gerrie said...

That is just gorgeous, Sue. Like them both, but the scale of Plume Poppy is wonderful

Perry said...

Fabulous work. The beading on the plume cyanotype is amazing. The closeup of the heliographic leaves with the stitching look like they're floating on a mill pond. Wonderful effect.

Congratulations on the exhibition of this amazing quilt!

Holly Knott said...

Gorgeous. Great detail! I'm not familiar with the plant but am going to go Google it! congrats on the acceptance into the Penn State show!

Terry Grant said...

Wow! Huge--and gorgeous. How I would love to see it in all its glory! I am so happy for you. Well-deserved recognition.

Unknown said...

Very nice and I'm glad you got in. ...and am very glad that the fabric version is not as invasive as the plant version!

Ann Brauer said...

Congratulations--now I want to see the flower also.

Karen Newman Fridy said...

Oh my!! Plume Poppy is gorgeous!!!! Congratulations!

Diane Doran said...

Wow, Sue, that is wonderful - I love it!

Pat Bishop said...

Great job Sue,

Congratulations on your acceptance into the show. Wish I could see them both in person, I bet they are glorious in real life!!!

Sherryl said...

These are both beautiful pieces Sue. Congratulations for getting into the show.

Penny Mateer said...

Stunning work. I think this show i will be able to see in person and look forward to it. Congratulations!
Penny

momid5 said...

Both are wonderful, the scale on poppy is awsome..enjoy the show!

Kim Hambric said...

What a wonderful piece. These colors are stunning.

And, since I live in State College, I get to see your piece in person!!!

Martha Ginn said...

Sue, I always admire your work, and this one is stunning! The patchwork panels perfectly frame and integrate the cyanotype ones. Congratulations on the show.

Sue Reno said...

Wow, thanks for all the nice comments!

Anonymous said...

Sue, Plume Poppy is gorgeous. I'm particularly taken with those lighter square areas in the top. wish I could see it in person! Congratulations on the show--and on the persistence in finishing.

Sylvia in Beaumont TX

Kristin L said...

Beautiful work, and congratulations on finding an appropriate place to showcase it. :-)

Unknown said...

Congratulations Sue, not just one but two pieces in the show. I am so proud of you. Count me in on your road trip again if that suits you. I love the new plume poppy. Beautiful.