For many years I have been a strong admirer of dollmaker Shelly Thornton. What I love most about her dolls is their stuffed hair. Take a look at this doll, Eva, and you will see what I'm talking about. Instead of making hair from traditional materials, like yarn or string or even torn fabric, she creates three-dimensional stuffed pieces that evoke the movement of hair.
I have talked about Shelly's influence on my work before when I created the crest for my wading birds. Ever since then I have thought it would be amazing to make a bird with wings and tail feathers that were like separate stuffed nodules.
For some reason that I can't really name, now seemed like the right time to try it. Maybe because I am freeing myself of color restraints, so why not go a step further? Or maybe because I have turned away a lot of work recently in an effort to clear some creative space to explore without obligations. (It can be so hard to say no. This week I've said no to show invitations, a TV spot, an opportunity to make a DVD, and four custom work requests.)
All of this is to say, I made a second parrot.
And I really like this idea. The wings extend, like they're ruffled. And there are infinite ways to keep going, to add more, to make it grow. Really neat stuff. Space is good.
Very cool–the idea, and the sentiment (time to create without obligation).
Your parrot is incredible, I love it. Off to check out Stellas work…
Shelley sorry!
I really like this. I can see the individual pieces quilted or embroidered in some fashion. Also, thank you for the link to Shelly Thornton. Her dolls are spectacular. I can’t imagine how long she must work on each one.
This looks so very interesting, Abby! Even if you stayed with your muted tones, with this technique, your pieces would acquire an extra sense of movement. Can’t wait to see what you’ll be doing next.
And space… I want some, too, but maybe when the baby is a bit bigger.
oh, how I understand how you feel…..and yes, it is ever so important to have the time to just be. I need to take some lessons from your use of such colours! great job 🙂
Your starfish captured movement in a
similar way. Hooray for space and the
realization you were sewing rather
than bailing out water! Nice link.
i love the depth and layers of this but I would love to see you explore a mixed up version of parrot one and two.
I think they could make beautiful little parrots together.
I totally understand your thoughts on needing to free up time to explore new creative lands.