Week in Review 2021 – 12/03

Time skills take…

When the full quilt is viewed the quilting is more subtle, barely visible, compared to when seen close up.
The quilting of Celestial Celebration has begun.

It all comes down to time. There is never enough of it. So, using time wisely is crucial if you hope to accomplish what is important to you. When people view my artwork, even my fellow fiber artists, they often remark they would never have the time to do what I do. Poppycock! We all have the same 24 hours in a day. However, what we choose to focus on varies. Yes, life has a way of happening that can derail plans. The key is returning to the mission once the interruption is handled. Using time wisely is a matter of practice and determination.

Practice…

The detail image shows how the quilting separates the division between the undulating cloud and the sky it resides in.
Where does the cloud end and the sky begin? The cloud perimeter is defined by the where the cloud quilting motif ends. The sky motif will be horizontal versus undulating in all directions the way I am quilting the cloud.

… And Determination

December is one of times when life interrupts as we prep for all that comes with this crazy holiday season. Events, whether in person or virtual are scheduled. Traditional family recipes are dusted off and made. It is time to give the home a face lift with seasonal flair. It can be all consuming. Studio time is worked in between holiday prep work with a little determination and admittedly a need for self care.

Close up of the quilting motif used to enhance the undulating texture of a cloud
Quilting detail showing the combo motif used to create a sense of rolling movement within the cloud.

Guilty as charged. It does all come down to time. By golly, I will spend time in my studio regrouping and refreshing by tackling my current WIP, Celestial Celebration. I find nothing more relaxing then listening to a great audiobook while quilting a challenging, but repetitive motif.

I am linking up with Nina Marie’s Off the Wall Fridays.

By Gwyned Trefethen

I am an artist who uses fabric, thread and miscellany to create designs gifted to me by my imagination.

6 comments

  1. Ironically, many of the seasonal activities you mention are considered women’s work. I can’t imagine a male artist thinking such stuff was his job. Forgive me if I malign any member of your household. My solution is to see how much of the seasonal tasks are self imposed. So far this year the only task I have taken on is making cards.

    1. Joanna, I’m glad you spoke up. In fact, in my home my husband does the most of the cooking and cleaning, year round and especially at the holidays. We have chosen to let go of much of what we traditionally did when were younger with far more energy. We do send cards and give gifts to the grandchildren. We split both these activities. He puts up the lights and does some decorating. If we don’t have anyone coming over, our decorating is very minimal. Like you, I have thought about the difference between male and female artists – really any profession – see as their responsibility. I feel fortunate that I have far more of choice on how I spend my time than many. I choose to spend time being creative and connected.

    1. Thank you, Angela. Even though holidays can take time away from the studio, I am grateful we have the excuse to connect with friends and family. Studio practice can be isolating.

  2. Hi Gwyned, I love your FMQ. I hope that you’ll get some time to quilt if you feel like it during the holiday season. I’m also trying to limit my holiday preparations – we’ll see how that goes. Take care.

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