Shoals by beve handwerger

The watercolor painting was the inspiration for this piece, along with land masses seen on the coast. Gesso, cheesecloth and tissue paper form the undercoat/texture of the painting. Straight, horizontal Satin stitches, irregular Herringbone is the base of the Raised Chain Band stitch used for the shoals.

Generally, my work develops spontaneously over an extended period of times in which to think it through, change it, experiment with it…in my mind. Fabric, materials are often the motivation. Once defined I begin pulling the materials, following the concept worked out in my mind, knowing it may need changes as the work itself takes over and dictates direction. The piece grows, much like watching a child grow. With an emotional idea, I'll experiment with concepts, design and materials on paper. I need to work it through where it visually takes shape.